Monitoring and controlling industrial equipment

ABSTRACT

Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium for communicating between an operational asset and a backend network that include the actions of receiving first data from an operational asset through a first communication interface that is configured to communicate with an operational asset, and where the first data is formatted according to a first data format that is specific to the operational asset. Processing the first data according to an asset template to generate second data, where the second data includes the first data and being formatted according to a second data format that is specific to the backend network. Causing the second data to be transmitted to the backend network by a second communication interface that is configured to communicate with a backend network.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.16/454,950, filed on Jun. 27, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 15/473,241, filed on Mar. 29, 2017, now U.S. Pat.No. 10,372,116, which claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S.Provisional Application No. 62/318,628, filed on Apr. 5, 2016, theentire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

Oil and gas production assets are often distributed across remotelocations. For example, well-sites can be remote from conventionalcommunications equipment, making the retrieval of well-site datadifficult and unreliable. Moreover, even obtaining data from andcontrolling operational assets remotely (e.g., through networkcommunications) can be challenging, because well-sites may lack networkcommunications infrastructure, or have insufficient network resources(e.g., bandwidth). Furthermore, many operational assets (e.g., sensorsand equipment) have little or no local intelligence, and thus, rely on abackend network for data gathering and control operations.

SUMMARY

This specification relates to systems and methods for monitoring andcontrolling industrial equipment. More specifically, the specificationrelates systems and methods for adding a level of local intelligence toindustrial equipment. In addition, the specification relates to amodular network edge device for monitoring and controlling industrialequipment.

Implementations of the present disclosure generally relate to systemsand methods of operation for a configurable network edge device. Moreparticularly, implementations of the present disclosure provide anetwork edge device that can interface between a backend network and oneor more operational assets (e.g., industrial sensors and operationalequipment). For example, the network edge device can be configured tointerface between a backend network and an operational asset, whilepermitting the backend network to be agnostic to the particularcommunication protocols and data formats of the asset. Furthermore, thenetwork edge device itself can be agnostic to communication protocols ofboth the backend network and the operational asset such that the networkedge device is configurable to interface between various operationalassets and backend networks using various network communicationprotocols. In some examples, an asset template is used to configure anetwork edge device to interface with a particular operational asset andbackend network. For example, an asset template can define interfacingprotocols between a particular operational asset (e.g., a variable pump)and a backend network.

In general, innovative aspects of the subject matter described in thisspecification can be embodied in methods for communicating between anoperational asset and a backend network that include the actions ofreceiving first data from an operational asset through a firstcommunication interface that is configured to communicate with anoperational asset, and where the first data is formatted according to afirst data format that is specific to the operational asset. Processingthe first data according to an asset template to generate second data,where the second data includes the first data and being formattedaccording to a second data format that is specific to the backendnetwork. Causing the second data to be transmitted to the backendnetwork by a second communication interface that is configured tocommunicate with a backend network. This and other implementations caneach optionally include one or more of the following features.

In some implementations, the methods can include receiving, from thesecond communication interface, instructions from the backend network tochange an operating parameter of the operational asset. Generating acontrol signal to change the operating parameter of the operationalasset in accordance with the instructions based on the asset template,where the control signal is formatted according to a control formatspecific to the operational asset. Causing the control signal to betransmitted to the operational asset by the first communicationinterface.

In some implementations, the first data format includes a digital dataformat specific to the operational asset.

In some implementations, receiving the first data includes receiving aportion of the first data at each of a plurality of first timeintervals, and the methods can include storing each portion of the firstdata, where the second data is caused to be transmitted at an end of asecond time interval, the second time interval being of a longer periodof time than each of the first time intervals.

In some implementations, the methods can include causing the networkedge device to enter a low power mode between each of the first timeintervals.

In some implementations, the methods can include determining to changean operating parameter of the operational asset based on the first dataand the asset template. Generating a control signal to change theoperating parameter of the operational asset in accordance with theasset template, where the control signal is formatted according to acontrol format specific to the operational asset. Causing the controlsignal to be transmitted to the operational asset by the firstcommunication interface.

In some implementations, the second data includes an indication that thenetwork edge device changed the operating parameter of the operationalasset.

In some implementations, the network edge device can be operating in afirst mode in which changes to operating parameters of the operationalasset are controlled by instructions from the backend network. Themethods can include determining that communications with the backendnetwork have been lost, and shifting the network edge device to operatein a second mode in changes to operating parameters of the operationalasset are controlled by the network edge device in accordance with theasset template.

In some implementations, the asset template can identify the first dataformat for data received from the operational asset, the second dataformat for data to be sent to the backend network, a control signalformat of control signals for controlling operating parameters theoperational asset, criteria for controlling operating parameters of theoperational asset, and alarm values associated with parameters of theoperational asset.

In some implementations, the methods can include performing an analysison the first data to generate a result, and wherein the second dataincludes the result.

In some implementations, the analysis can be one of filtering the firstdata, performing a fast Fourier transform (FFT) on the first data, orcomparing the first data to alarm limits.

In some implementations, the methods can include obtaining a geographiclocation of the network edge device, where the second data includes dataidentifying the geographic location of the network edge device.

In another general, innovative aspects of the subject matter describedin this specification can be embodied in methods for configuring anetwork edge device for communicating between an operational asset and abackend network that include the actions of establishing communicationwith a backend network through a first network connection. Establishingcommunication with a user computing device through a second, differentnetwork connection. Receiving an asset template that identifiescommunication protocols of the backend network and communicationprotocols of an operational asset to which the network edge device iscoupled. Sending registration data to the backend network to registerthe network edge device and the operational asset with the backendnetwork in response to receiving an instruction from the user computingdevice. This and other implementations can each optionally include oneor more of the following features.

In some implementations, the asset template can facilitate communicationbetween the operational asset and the backend network while permittingthe operational asset to be agnostic to communication protocols of thebackend network and permitting the backend network to be agnostic to thecommunication protocols of the operational asset. In someimplementations, the asset template is received from the backendnetwork. In some implementations, the asset template is received fromthe user computing device.

In some implementations, the first network connection is one of acellular network connection, a satellite network connection, or a randomphase multiple access (RPMA) network connection, and wherein the secondnetwork connection is a low-power local network connection.

In some implementations, the methods can include sending data from theoperational asset to the user computing device.

In some implementations, the data includes data for displayingmeasurement data from the operational asset in a graphical userinterface in a graphical representation of an analog gauge or digitalmeter display.

In some implementations, the methods can include receiving, from theuser computing device, user input to view the data from the operationalasset in a different format; and sending, to the user computing device,the data from the operational asset in the different format.

In some implementations, the different format is a different level ofabstraction for the data. In some implementations, the different formatis a voltage or current measurement from a sensor of the operationalasset.

In some implementations, the methods can include sending data from theoperational asset to the backend network after registering with thebackend network.

In some implementations, the registration data includes a code orpassword.

In some implementations, the methods can include determining a type ofthe operational asset; and requesting an asset template that is specificto the determined type of the operational asset.

In some implementations, the methods can include receiving user input tocustomize asset template; and modifying the asset template in accordancewith the user input from the user computing device.

In another general aspect, the subject matter described in thisspecification can be embodied in a network edge device that includes ahousing and a control board inside the housing. The control boardincludes one or more processors, a memory device coupled to the one theone or more processors, a wiring bay, and a communication interfaceport. The wiring bay includes a plurality of different types of wiringinterfaces for connecting an operational asset to the network edgedevice. The wiring interfaces are coupled to the one or more processors.The communication interface port is coupled to the one or moreprocessors and is configured to receive a detachable radio frequency(RF) modem board that includes one of two or more different types of RFmodems. The memory device has instructions stored thereon for executionby the one or more processors. The instructions can cause the one ormore processors perform the operations of automatically identifying atype of an RF modem on an RF modem board that is connected to thecommunication interface port, and communicating with the RF modemaccording to a communication protocol specific to the type of the RFmodem. This and other implementations can each optionally include one ormore of the following features.

In some implementations, the instructions cause the one or moreprocessors perform the operations of any one or more of the abovemethods for communicating between an operational asset and a backendnetwork

In some implementations, the instructions cause the one or moreprocessors perform the operations of any one or more of the abovemethods for configuring a network edge device for communicating betweenan operational asset and a backend network.

The device of claim 1, wherein the control board is configured toreceive a detachable battery module.

In some implementations, the two or more different types of RF modemsincludes a satellite modem, a cellular modem, and a random phasemultiple access (RPMA) modem.

In some implementations, the plurality of wiring interfaces include aserial data communication interface, an analog signal input interface,an analog signal output interface, and a digital signal input interface.

In some implementations, the plurality of wiring interfaces includeserial data communication interfaces, an analog current signal inputinterface, an analog current signal output interface, an analog voltagesignal input interface, a pulse signal input interface, a digital signalinput interface, and a temperature sensor input interface.

In some implementations, the serial data communication interface is oneof a RS485 interface or a RS232 interface.

In some implementations, the control board includes an input/outputexpansion port for receiving a detachable input/output expansion board.

In some implementations, the input/output expansion board includes amotor controller.

In some implementations, the housing includes a threaded mount forreceiving a wiring conduit.

In some implementations, the housing includes a threaded mount forreceiving an antenna.

In some implementations, the network edge device meets a NationalElectric Code (NEC) classification for an explosion proof device in anexplosive gas area.

The present disclosure also provides a computer-readable storage mediumcoupled to one or more processors and having instructions stored thereonwhich, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one ormore processors to perform operations in accordance with implementationsof the methods provided herein.

The present disclosure further provides a system for implementing themethods provided herein. The system includes one or more processors, anda computer-readable storage medium coupled to the one or more processorshaving instructions stored thereon which, when executed by the one ormore processors, cause the one or more processors to perform operationsin accordance with implementations of the methods provided herein.

It is appreciated that methods in accordance with the present disclosurecan include any combination of the aspects and features describedherein. That is, methods in accordance with the present disclosure arenot limited to the combinations of aspects and features specificallydescribed herein, but also include any combination of the aspects andfeatures provided.

The details of one or more implementations of the present disclosure areset forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Otherfeatures and advantages of the present disclosure will be apparent fromthe description and drawings, and from the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts an example system in accordance with implementations ofthe present disclosure.

FIG. 2 depicts an example portion of a play network.

FIG. 3 depicts a representation of an example well-site.

FIG. 4 depicts an example system architecture for a network edge devicein accordance with implementations of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 depicts an example sequence diagrams in accordance withimplementations of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 depicts an example process for facilitating data communicationsbetween an operational asset and a backend network that can be executedin accordance with implementations of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 depicts an example process for facilitating control of anoperational asset by a backend network that can be executed inaccordance with implementations of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 depicts an example process flow for configuring a network edgedevice in accordance with implementations of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 depicts an example process for configuring a network edge devicefor communicating between an operational asset and a backend networkthat can be executed in accordance with implementations of the presentdisclosure.

FIGS. 10A and 10B depict a first example embodiment of a network edgedevice in accordance with implementations of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 11A and 11B depict a second example embodiment of a network edgedevice in accordance with implementations of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 depicts a diagram of an example wiring configuration forconnecting an operational asset using serial data interfaces of anetwork edge device.

FIG. 13 depicts a diagram of an example wiring configuration forconnecting an operational asset using analog data interfaces of anetwork edge device.

FIG. 14 depicts a diagram of an example wiring configuration forconnecting an operational asset to control interfaces of a network edgedevice.

FIG. 15 depicts a diagram of an example wiring configuration forconnecting an operational asset to an expansion module of a network edgedevice.

FIG. 16 is a schematic illustration of example computer systems that canbe used to execute implementations of the present disclosure

Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Implementations of the present disclosure generally relate to systemsand methods of operation for a configurable network edge device. Moreparticularly, implementations of the present disclosure provide anetwork edge device that can interface between a backend network and oneor more operational assets (e.g., industrial sensors and operationalequipment). For example, the network edge device can be configured tointerface between a backend network and an operational asset, whilepermitting the backend network to be agnostic to the particularcommunication protocols and data formats of the asset. Likewise, thenetwork edge device can also be configured such that operational assetcan be agnostic to the particular communication protocols and dataformats of the backend network. Furthermore, the network edge deviceitself can be agnostic to communication protocols of both the backendnetwork and the operational asset such that the network edge device isconfigurable to interface between various operational assets and backendnetworks using various network communication protocols. In someexamples, an asset template is used to configure a network edge deviceto interface with a particular operational asset and backend network.For example, an asset template can define interfacing protocols betweena particular operational asset (e.g., a variable pump) and a backendnetwork.

In some implementations, a network edge device can provide autonomous“real-time” control of an operational asset apart from a backendnetwork. In some examples, a network edge device can provide autonomous“real-time” control of an operational asset apart from a backendnetwork. For example, such autonomous control may provide more efficientuse of network infrastructure resources and improve the remote controlcapabilities of the operational asset by minimizing or eliminatingnetwork latency delays.

In some implementations, a network edge device can operate in a varietyof operating modes. For example, the operating modes vary frompermitting compete monitoring and control of an operational asset by abackend network to making only periodic data reports to the backendnetwork, while mainlining autonomous data monitoring and control of anoperational asset at the network edge device. In some examples, anetwork edge device can shift between operating modes at the command ofthe backend network. In some examples, a network edge device can shiftbetween operating modes automatically, for example, upon detecting anabnormal network condition (e.g., loss of or degraded communicationswith the backend network). In some examples, a network edge device canshift between operating modes automatically, for example, upon detectingan abnormal power condition (e.g., loss of or reduced power).

In some implementations, a network edge device can be remotelyupgradable. For example, a backend network can provide software upgrades(e.g., upgrades to a network edge device's firmware, operating system,and/or asset template(s)). In some implementations, a network edgedevice includes location detection capabilities. For example, a networkedge device can include a GPS receiver to track the location of thenetwork edge device and, by extension, the associated operational asset.

In some implementations, a network edge device includes power savingfeatures. For example, a network edge device can be configured to entera low power mode when not performing data monitoring or asset controloperations. For example, in a low power mode all nonessential componentsmay be powered down. In some examples, the network edge device may powerdown all components except an interval timer or interrupt circuit totrigger the network edge device to transition out of the low power mode.

Implementations of the present disclosure also relate to methods forinitializing a configurable network edge device for monitoring andcontrolling an operational asset. More particularly, implementations ofthe present disclosure provide a method for initializing communicationsbetween a network edge device and an operational asset coupled to thenetwork edge device. For example, a network edge device can beconfigured to communicate with a backend network and an operation assetwhile permitting the backend network and the operational asset to eachremain agnostic to the communication protocols of the other. The networkedge device can be configured with an asset template that identifiescommunication protocols of the backend network and the operationalasset. In some examples, the asset template includes operatingrequirements for the operational asset and the network edge device. Insome examples, the network edge device can be configured using a usercomputing device (e.g., a tablet computer) in communication with thenetwork edge device over a separate communication network from thecommunication network through which the network edge device communicateswith the backend network.

In some implementations, the asset template can be modified based onuser input to the user computing device. For example, a network templatethat is general to pumps can be modified to include communicationprotocols or operational requirements of a particular pump model oroperational requirements for pumps a particular industrial site. Inother words, the asset template can be modified to accommodatecharacteristics of a particular operational asset or to accommodatespecific operations at a particular site.

In some implementations, proper operation of the network edge device canbe verified by sending data from the operation asset to the usercomputing device. For example, the network edge device can stream datato the user computing device to verify proper operation beforetransmitting the data to the backend network, thereby, reducing thepotential that the backend network may waste resources on improper data.In some implementations, the network edge device can permit a user totroubleshoot improper operation by allowing the user to inspect the dataat various levels of abstraction. For example, the network edge devicecan provide the data to the user computing device in various differentformats that allows a user to step through the data processing performedby the network edge device to find and correct an error.

Implementations of the present disclosure will be discussed in furtherdetail with reference to an example context. The example contextincludes oil and gas well-sites. It is appreciated, however, thatimplementations of the present disclosure can be realized in otherappropriate contexts, for example, a chemical plant, a fertilizer plant,tank batteries (located away from a site), above-ground appurtenances(pipelines) and/or intermediate sites. An example intermediate site caninclude a central delivery point that can be located between a site anda refinery, for example. Within the example context, implementations ofthe present disclosure are discussed in further detail with reference toan example sub-context. The example sub-context includes a productionwell-site. It is appreciated, however, that implementations of thepresent disclosure can be realized in other appropriate sub-contexts,for example, an exploration well-site, a configuration well-site, aninjection well-site, an observation well-site, and a drilling well-site.

In the example context and sub-context, well-sites can be located innatural resource plays. A natural resource play can be associated withoil and/or natural gas. In general, a natural resource play includes anextent of a petroleum-bearing formation, and/or activities associatedwith petroleum development in a region. An example geographical regioncan include southwestern Texas in the United States, and an examplenatural resource play includes the Eagle Ford Shale Play.

As used herein the term “real time” refers to transmitting or processingdata without intentional delay given the processing limitations of thesystem, the time required to accurately measure the data, and the rateof change of the parameter being measured. For example, “real time”operations should be capable of capturing appreciable changes in aparameter measured by a sensor, processing the data to determine whetherto perform an action based on the data, and transmitting control signalsto perform the action without intentional delay, and within sufficienttime for an operational asset to receive and respond to the controlsignals prior to a significant change in the measured parameter. Forinstance, a “real-time” operation for a slowly changing parameter (e.g.,liquid level in a tank) may be one that measures, processes, andtransmits control signals to an associated pump or electronicallycontrolled valve every hour (or longer) if the parameter (e.g., tanklevel) only changes appreciably in an hour (or longer). However, a“real-time” operation for a rapidly changing parameter (e.g., well headpressure) may be one that measures, processes, and transmits controlsignals to an associated well pump motor every minute (or more often) ifthe parameter (e.g., well head pressure) changes appreciably in a minute(or more often).

FIG. 1 depicts an example system 100 that can execute implementations ofthe present disclosure. The example system 100 includes one or morecomputing devices, such as computing devices 102, 104, one or more playnetworks 106, and a backend network 107 that includes one or morecomputing systems 108. The example system 100 further includes a network110. The network 110 can include a large computer network, such as alocal area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), the Internet, acellular network, a satellite network, a mesh network (e.g., 900 Mhz),one or more wireless access points, or a combination thereof connectingany number of mobile clients, fixed clients, and servers. In someexamples, the network 110 can be referred to as an upper-level network.

The computing devices 102, 104 are associated with respective users 112,114. In some examples, the computing devices 102, 104 can each includevarious forms of a processing device including, but not limited to, adesktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a wearablecomputer, a handheld computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), acellular telephone, a network appliance, a smart phone, an enhancedgeneral packet radio service (EGPRS) mobile phone, or an appropriatecombination of any two or more of these example data processing devicesor other data processing devices. The computing systems 108 can eachinclude a computing system 108 a and computer-readable memory providedas a persistent storage device 108 b, and can represent various forms ofserver systems including, but not limited to a web server, anapplication server, a proxy server, a network server, or a server farm.

In some implementations, and as discussed in further detail herein, sitedata (e.g., oil data and/or gas data) can be communicated from one ormore of the play networks 106 to the computing systems 108 of thebackend network 107 over the network 110. In some examples, each playnetwork 106 can be provided as a regional network. For example, a playnetwork can be associated with one or more plays within a geographicalregion. In some examples, each play network 106 includes one or moresub-networks. As discussed in further detail herein, examplesub-networks can include a low power data sub-network, e.g., a low powermachine-to-machine data network (also referred to as a smart datanetwork and/or an intelligent data network, one or more wirelesssub-networks, and mesh sub-networks, e.g., 900 Mhz.

In some examples, the computing systems 108 store the well data and/orprocess the well data to provide auxiliary data. In some examples, thewell data and/or the auxiliary data are communicated over the playnetwork(s) 106 and the network 110 to the computing devices 102, 104 fordisplay thereon. In some examples, user input to the computing devices102, 104 can be communicated to the computing systems 108 over thenetwork 110.

In general, monitoring of well-sites can include oil well monitoring andnatural gas well monitoring (e.g., pressure(s), temperature(s), flowrate(s)), compressor monitoring (e.g., pressure, temperature), flowmeasurement (e.g., flow rate), custody transfer, tank level monitoring,hazardous gas detection, remote shut-in, water monitoring, cathodicprotection sensing, asset tracking, water monitoring, access monitoring,alarm monitoring, monitoring operational parameters (e.g., operatingspeed), and valve monitoring. In some examples, monitoring can includemonitoring the presence and concentration of fluids (e.g., gases,liquids). In some examples, monitoring can include environmentalmonitoring such as weather conditions, seismic measurements, well boreconfiguration, surface conditions, downhole conditions, presence ofvolatile organic compounds (VOCs). In some examples, monitoring caninclude equipment operational status monitoring such as method ofartificial lift, age, or other properties of a well in order to modeland predict the useful life/failure rate of given equipment type. Insome examples, control capabilities can be provided, such as remotevalve control, remote start/stop capabilities, remote access control.

FIG. 2 depicts an example portion of an example play network 200. Theexample play network 200 provides low power (LP) communication, e.g.,using a low power data network, and cellular and/or satellitecommunication for well data access and/or control. In some examples, asdiscussed herein, LP communication can be provided by a LP network. Inthe example of FIG. 2, a first well-site 202, a second well-site 204 anda third well-site 206 are depicted. Although three well-sites aredepicted, it is appreciated that the example play network 200 caninclude any appropriate number of well-sites. In the example of FIG. 2,well monitoring and data access for the well-site 202 is provided usingLP communication and cellular and/or satellite communication, and wellmonitoring and data access for the well-sites 204, 206 is provided usingcellular, satellite, and/or mesh network communication.

The example of FIG. 2 corresponds to the example context and sub-context(a production well-site) discussed above. It is appreciated, however,that implementations of the present disclosure. In the depicted example,the well-site 202 includes a wellhead 203, a sensor system 210, andnetwork edge devices 214. In some examples, the sensor system 210includes a wireless network edge devices 214 that is connected to one ormore sensors, the one or more sensors monitoring parameters associatedwith operation of the wellhead 203. In some examples, the wirelessnetwork edge devices 214 enables monitoring of discrete and analogsignals directly from the connected sensors and/or other signalingdevices. In some examples, the sensor system 210 generates data signalsthat are provided to the network edge devices 214, which can forward thedata signals. In some examples, the sensor system 210 can providecontrol functionality (e.g., valve control). Although a single sensorsystem 210 is depicted, it is contemplated that a well-site can includeany appropriate number of sensor systems 210 and network edge devices214.

Well data and/or control commands can be provided to/from the well-site202 through an access point 216. More particularly, information can betransmitted between the access point 216, the sensor system 210, and/orthe network edge devices 214 based on LP network. In some examples, LPnetwork provides communication using a globally certified, license freespectrum (e.g., 2.4 GHz). In some examples, the access point 216provides a radial coverage that enables the access point 216 tocommunicate with numerous well-sites, such as the well-site 202. In someexamples, the access point 216 further communicates with the network 110using cellular, satellite, mesh, point-to-point, point-to-multipointradios, and/or terrestrial or wired communication.

In the depicted example, the access point 216 is mounted on a tower 220.In some examples, the tower 220 can include an existingtelecommunications or other tower. In some examples, an existing towercan support multiple functionalities. In this manner, erection of atower specific to one or more well-sites is not required. In someexamples, one or more dedicated towers could be erected.

In the depicted example, the well-sites 204, 206 include respectivewellheads 205, 207, and respective sensor systems 210 (discussed above).Although a single sensor system 210 is depicted for each well-site 204,206, it is contemplated that a well-site can include any appropriatenumber of sensor systems 210. In some examples, well data and/or controlcommands can be provided to/from the well-sites 202 through a gateway232. More particularly, information can be transmitted between thegateway 232, and the sensor systems 210 can be wireless communication(e.g., radio frequency (RF)). In some examples, the gateway 232 furthercommunicates with the network 110 using cellular and/or satellitecommunication.

In accordance with implementations of the present disclosure, well-sitecontrol and/or data visualization and/or analysis functionality (e.g.,hosted in the backend network 107 of FIGS. 1 and 2) and one or more playnetworks (e.g., the play networks 106, 200 of FIGS. 1 and 2) can beprovided by a service provider. In some examples, the service providerprovides end-to-end services for a plurality of well-sites. In someexamples, the service provider owns the one or more play networks andenables well-site operators to use the play networks andcontrol/visualization/monitoring functionality provided by the serviceprovider. For example, a well-site operator can operate a plurality ofwell-sites. The well-site operator can engage the service provider forwell-site control/visualization/monitoring services (e.g., subscribe forservices). In some examples, the service provider and/or the well-siteoperator can install appropriate sensor systems, network edge devicesand/or gateways (e.g., as discussed above with reference to FIG. 2). Insome examples, sensor systems, network edge devices and/or gateways canbe provided as end-points that are unique to the well-site operator.

In some implementations, the service provider can maintain one or moreindices of end-points and well-site operators. In some examples, theindex can map data received from one or more end-points to computingdevices associated with one or more well-site operators. In someexamples, well-site operators can include internal server systems and/orcomputing devices that can receive well data and/or auxiliary data fromthe service provider. In some examples, the service provider can receivemessages from well-sites, the messages can include, for example, welldata and an end-point identifier. In some examples, the service providercan route messages and/or auxiliary data generated by the serverprovider (e.g., analytical data) to the appropriate well-site operatoror personnel based on the end-point identifier and the index. Similarly,the service provider can route messages (e.g., control messages) from awell-site operator to one or more appropriate well-sites.

FIG. 3 depicts a representation of an example well-site 300. The examplewell-site 300 can include a production well-site, in accordance with theexample sub-context provided above. In the depicted example, thewell-site 300 includes a well-head 302, an oil and gas separator 304 anda storage tank system 306. In the depicted example, the storage tanksystem 306 includes a manifold 308 and a plurality of storage tanks 310.The example well-site 300 further includes a base station 312. In someexamples, the well-site 300 can include a local weather station 314. Insome examples, the well-site 300 can include artificial lift equipment316, e.g., to assist in extraction of oil and/or gas from the well.

In some examples, the well-site 300 includes one or more operationalassets 320 a-320 g that are part of the sensor network discussed abovein reference to FIG. 2. In some examples, an operational asset can beprovided as a sensor or cluster of sensors. Example sensors can includefluid sensors, but is not limited to, gas sensors, temperature sensors,pressure sensors, voltage meters and/or amp meters. Each sensor isresponsive to a condition, and can generate a respective signal basedthereon. In some examples, an operational asset 320 a-320 g can beprovided as well-site equipment. Example well-site equipment caninclude, but is not limited to, pumps, compressors, motors, relays,switches, and/or remotely operable valve(s) along with associatedsensors.

Each item of an operational asset includes a communication interface forreceiving data from the asset (e.g., sensors) and/or controlling theasset (e.g., well-site equipment). In some examples, an operationalasset can include a computer-based interface for monitoring sensor dataand controlling the operation of associated equipment. For example, acomputer-based interface may include a processor and a data input/outputinterface (e.g., a serial data connection). In some examples, acommunication interface for an operational asset can include analog dataoutputs of a sensor or analog controllers that control the operation ofthe equipment. The most basic communication interface may be a cablewhich transmits a voltage or current signal representative of a sensormeasurement or a relay input for controlling power to a piece ofequipment (e.g. a valve).

As discussed herein, operational assets 320 a-320 g can be coupled to anetwork edge device 214 to provide data to a backend network 107 forprocessing. For example, data can be provided through a play network,e.g., the play network(s) 106 of FIG. 1, to a backend network 107. Thebackend network 107 can process the sensor data to control operations ofthe operational assets 320 a-320 g. Further, the backend network 107sends instructions for controlling the operational assets 320 a-320 g tothe network edge devices 214, which, in-turn provide appropriate controlsignals to the operational assets 320 a-320 g, as discussed in moredetail herein.

FIG. 4 depicts an example system architecture 400 for a network edgedevice 214 in accordance with implementations of the present disclosure.The system architecture 400 for the network edge device 214 includes abackend network interface 402, an asset communication interface 404, anda control system 406. As discussed herein, the backend network interface402 interfaces with a backend network 107 to transmit and receive dataand commands according to network communication protocols specific tothe backend network. The backend network interface 402 permitscommunications between the network edge device 214 and the backendnetwork to be agnostic of a particular operational asset 320 to whichthe network edge device 214 is connected. The asset communicationinterface 404 interfaces with the operational asset 320 to receive dataand transmit commands according to particular communication or signalingprotocols of the operational asset 320. The control system 406facilitates data communications between the backend network 107 and theoperational asset 320, and can provide autonomous control of someoperational assets 320.

In the depicted example, the backend network interface 402 includes apacket manager 408 and a radio frequency (RF) protocol module 410. Insome examples, the backend network interface 402 is provided as one ormore computer-executable programs that can be executed using one or moreprocessors or controllers.

In some examples, the packet manager 408 is a component of the backendnetwork interface 402 that provides data packetization and datanormalization functions according to protocols of the backend network107 to make data delivery to the backend network agnostic from the pointof view of the operational asset 320. For example, the packet manager408 encapsulates asset data for transmission to the backend network 107in proper packet formats specific to the backend network 107. Inaddition, the packet manager 408 can extract asset agnostic commandsfrom the data packets received by the network edge device 214 accordingto proper packet formats. In some examples, the asset template 428,described in more detail below, can be used to determine proper packetformatting.

In some examples, the RF protocol module 410 is a component of thebackend network interface 402 that provides RF connectivity to thebackend network 107 through one or more wide area networks (WAN). Forexample, the RF protocol module 410 negotiates network protocols with anetwork access point (e.g., a cell tower, satellite, WiFi access point)to establish communications between the network edge device 214 and thebackend network 107 through a WAN (e.g., the Internet, a cellularnetwork, a satellite network, a mesh network (e.g., 900 Mhz), one ormore wireless access points, or a combination thereof).

In some examples, the RF protocol module 410 interfaces with one or moreRF modules 412 a-412 n. RF modules 412 a-412 n can be hardware orsoftware radio modules (e.g., modems) that perform the RF communicationswith a network access point. Example RF modules include, but are notlimited to, a random phase multiple access (RPMA) RF module 412 a, acellular communication RF module 412 b (e.g., LTE or 4G), and asatellite communication RF module 412 n. In some examples, an RFprotocol module 410 can interface with multiple RF modules 412 a-412 nconcurrently. For example, a network edge device 214 can communicatewith a backend network 107 through multiple RF networks concurrently. Insome examples, a network edge device 214 can be configured to use one RFmodule (e.g., RF module 412 a) for a primary communications channel andother RF modules (e.g., RF module 412 b, 412 n) for backup communicationchannels.

In the depicted example, the asset communication interface 404 includesmultiple data input modules 414, 416 and control output modules 418,420, 422. By way of a non-limiting example, an asset communicationinterface 404 can include a serial data input module 414, an analog datainput module 416, a serial control output module 418, an analog controloutput module 420, and a digital control output module 422. In someexamples, the asset communication interface 404 is provided as one ormore computer-executable programs that can be executed using one or moreprocessors or controllers.

In some examples, the data input modules 414, 416 are components of theasset communication interface 404 that enable data to be received froman operational asset 320 according to protocols of the operational asset320, and make data delivery to the backend network 107 agnostic from thepoint of view of the operational asset 320. For example, the serial datainput module 414 can include one or more serial data connections (e.g.,RS232, RS485, RJ45 (TCP/IP interfaces), Control Area Network (CAN) businterfaces) and appropriate hardware or software for establishingcommunications with operational assets 320 in accordance with particularserial communications protocols (e.g., signal timing, data line wakeupsignals, data rate, and data packet formats) of the operational assets320. For example, the serial data input module 414 can be used tointerface with an operational asset that has a computer-based interfaceor control system (e.g., electronic gas flow meters, programmable logiccontrollers (PLC), remote terminal units (RTU), diesel generators,diesel engines powering compressors, hazardous gas monitors, variablespeed drives, pump controllers, liquid asset custody transfer units(LACT), engine control units (ECU), etc.). The analog data input module416 can include wiring connections and appropriate hardware or softwarefor establishing communications with operational assets 320 inaccordance with particular analog signaling protocols (e.g., analogvoltage and current levels) of the operational assets 320. For example,the analog data input module 416 can be used to interface with anoperational asset that outputs analog data signals (e.g. analogpressure, temperature, or fluid level sensors).

In some examples, the control output modules 418, 420, 422 arecomponents of the asset communication interface 404 that enable thecommunication of data or commands to an operational asset 320 accordingto protocols of the operational asset 320, and make remote control ofthe operational asset 320 agnostic from the point of view of the backendnetwork 107. For example, the serial control output module 418 caninclude one or more serial data connections (e.g., RS232, RS485, RJ45(TCP/IP interfaces), Control Area Network (CAN) bus interfaces) andappropriate hardware or software for establishing communications withoperational assets 320 in accordance with particular serialcommunications protocols (e.g., signal timing, data line wakeup signals,data rate, and data packet formats) of the operational assets 320. Forexample, the serial control output module 418 can be used to interfacewith an operational asset that has a computer based interface or controlsystem. The analog control output module 420 can include wiringconnections and appropriate hardware or software for sending analogcontrol signals to operational assets 320 in accordance with analogcontrol signaling protocols (e.g., analog voltage and current levels) ofthe operational assets 320. For example, the analog control outputmodule 420 can be used to interface with an operational asset that iscontrolled by analog control signals (e.g. variable speed pumps). Thedigital control output module 422 can include wiring connections andappropriate hardware or software for sending digital control signals tooperational assets 320 in accordance with analog control signalingprotocols (e.g., on/off switching or pulse width modulated (PWM)signals) of the operational assets 320. For example, the digital controloutput module 420 can be used to interface with an operational assetthat is controlled by digital control signals (e.g. relays,solenoid-operated valves, power-switching circuits).

In some implementations, the serial data input module 414 and serialcontrol output module 418 can be integrated into one serial data module,for example, in a duplex communication system. In some examples, the twoserial data modules 414, 418 can each be duplex serial communicationmodules, for example, one can be an RS232 communication module and theother can be an RS485 communication module.

In the depicted example, the control system 406 includes a templateengine 426, a tunneling module 430, a data processing module 432, apolling & logging engine 434, a local control module 436, a controltransaction engine 438, a location detection module 440, and a userinterface (UI) engine 442. In some examples, the control system 406 isprovided as one or more computer-executable programs that can beexecuted using one or more processors or controllers. In some examples,the control system 406 is provided as one or more computer-executableprograms that can be executed using one or more processors orcontrollers.

In some examples, the template engine 426 is a component of the controlsystem 406 that enables communications between a backend network 107 andan operational asset 320 while permitting each of the backend network107 and the operational asset 320 to provide data or commands that areagnostic to the particular formats of each other. In short, the templateengine 426 translates operational asset agnostic instructions from abackend network 107 to control an operational asset 320, and translatesbackend network agnostic data from the operational asset 320 fortransmission to the backend network 107. Furthermore, the templateengine 426 can be configured for operation with a range of differentoperational assets 320 by loading an appropriate asset template 428.

For example, the backend network 107 can provide operational assetagnostic instructions to increase a fluid flow in a system. The templateengine 426 can receive the instructions and can translate theinstructions to an appropriate voltage signal or serial data signal tobe provided to a pump controller in accordance with the asset template428 associated with the pump, or to a valve solenoid in accordance withthe asset template 428 associated with a valve control. For example, theasset template 428 may include voltage or current control signal datafor the pump that can be used to translate the desired speed into avoltage or current signal. In this manner, the same instructions can beprovided to various operational assets to execute the desired controlfunctions.

As another example, the operational asset 320 can provide data in abackend network agnostic data format (e.g., sensor data). The templateengine 426 can receive the data and can translate the data format (e.g.,a sensor voltage) to an appropriate data format (e.g., digital datavalues or a table of a series of data values), in accordance with theasset template 428 associated with the operational asset 320, and to beprovided to the backend network 107. For example, the asset template 428may include voltage level curves for a pressure sensor that relate avoltage data signal to particular pressure values. In this manner, thedata from various operational assets 320 can be provided to a backendnetwork 107 according to a unified data format for the backend network107.

In some implementations, an asset template 428 can identify variousoperational asset 320 characteristics. For example, an asset template428 can identify characteristics including, but not limited to, dataformats used by an operational asset, control signaling schemes for theoperational asset, criteria for controlling operating parameters of anoperational asset (e.g., sensor data values which should trigger changesto an operating parameters of an operational asset), and alarm valuesassociated with an operational asset. In addition, an asset template 428can identify various data reporting criteria for a backend network 107.For example, an asset template 428 can identify criteria including, butnot limited to, a data format for data being transmitted to the backendnetwork, a reporting interval for reporting data, and pre-processinganalyses to be performed on the data before transmission to the backendnetwork.

In some examples, the tunneling module 430 is a component of the controlsystem 406 that allows a backend network 107 to directly access anoperational asset 320 through a network edge device 214. For example,the tunneling module 430 can facilitate the direct connect tunneling(DCT) communication mode of the network edge device 214 that isdiscussed in more detail below in reference to FIG. 5. For example, thetunneling module 430 provides a communication tunnel for the backendnetwork 107 to directly poll the operational asset 320 for data orprovide control signals directly to the operational asset 320 with no orminimal processing or reformatting of the data by the network edgedevice 214.

In some implementations, the tunneling module 430 can operate in thebackground (e.g., as a background processing thread). For example, thetunneling module 430 can enable the network edge device to operate intwo communication modes concurrently. For example, the backend networkmay be permitted to directly poll or control the operational asset 320through the tunneling module 430 (e.g., DCT communication mode) whilethe network edge device employs other components (e.g., polling &logging engine 434, local control module 436, location detection module440) to concurrently provide additional or backup data gathering andcontrol operations in another communication mode (e.g. store and forward(S&F) or autonomous communication modes (discussed below)).

In some examples, the data processing module 432 is a component of thecontrol system 406 that can process data received form the operationalasset 320. For example, the data processing module 432 can performpre-processing of data by, for example, performing data analyses thatthe backend network 107 might normally perform. Thus, processing data atthe network edge device 214 may reduce the processing burden on thebackend network 107. For example, data analyses can include, but are notlimited to, filtering the data, comparing the data to equipment alarmlimits, performing frequency analysis (e.g., fast Fourier transform(FFT) analysis), trend analysis, power consumption analysis, motorcurrent analysis (e.g., identifying magnitude and harmonic content),sensor noise analysis, sensor data linearization, temperature profiling,identifying equipment operational health signatures (e.g., failureanalysis), plunger lift control optimization analysis, and chemical pumpcontrol. In some implementations, the data processing module 432 canperform data analyses to determine whether and how to control anoperational asset 320 by, for example, adjusting operational parametersof the operational asset 320.

In some examples, the polling & logging engine 434 is a component of thecontrol system 406 that provides autonomous data gathering, storage, andcontrol operation logging functions for the network edge device 214. Forexample, the polling & logging engine 434 can perform the data gatheringand control logging functions of the S&F and autonomous communicationmodes, described in more detail below.

In some examples, the local control module 436 is a component of thecontrol system 406 that evaluates data received from the operationalasset 320 and determines how to control the operational asset 320 basedon the data. For example, the local control module 436 can determinewhether and, if so, how to alter various operating parameters of theoperational asset 320 based on the received data. For example, the localcontrol module 436 may evaluate flow data from a flow meter associatedwith a pump. The local control module 436 can compare the flow data tooperational rules associated with the pump and flow meter. For example,the operational rules may be defined in an asset template 428 for thepump and flow meter. The local control module 436 may determine that theflow is too low and that the pump should be started or that the pump'sspeed should be increased. In response, the local control module 436 caninterface with the local control transaction engine 438 to start orincrease the speed of the pump as appropriate.

In some implementations, the local control module 436 can interface withthe low power network interface 444. The low power network interface 444is a component of the control system 406 that provides communicationswith other devices (e.g., mobile computing devices and other networkinterface devices 214) over a low power network (e.g., a Bluetoothnetwork, a local WiFi network, a ZigBee network, etc.). The low powernetwork interface 444 communicates with a low power network RF module446 (e.g., a Bluetooth low energy (BLE), WiFi, or ZigBee transceiver) tocommunicate over the low power network. In some examples, the localcontrol module 436 can interface with the low power network interface444 to obtain additional data for controlling the operational asset 320from a different network edge device 214 that is connected to adifferent operational asset 320. For example, a first network edgedevice 214 may be connected to a pump for a chemical injection tank andmay determine, based on flow data from a flow meter associated with thepump that the pump speed should be increased, however, after obtainingadditional data from a second network edge device 214 connected to alevel indicator that indicates the tank is nearly empty, local controlmodule 436 of the first network edge device 214 can instead determine toshut down the pump.

In addition, the local control module 436 interfaces with the localcontrol transaction engine 438. The local control transaction engine 438is a component of the control system 406 that generates appropriatecommands or control signals to control an operational asset 320 andmanages any handshake and acknowledgement (ACK) protocols associatedwith the operational asset 320. More specifically, the local controltransaction engine 438 receives control instructions for the operationalasset 320 from the local control module 436 and provides the appropriatesignaling to the operational asset 320 to cause the operational asset320 to execute the instructions (e.g., change the appropriateoperational parameters of the operational asset 320).

In some examples, operational rules associated with the particularoperational asset or a type of operational asset to which the networkedge device 214 is connected are included in the asset template. Forexample, operational rules can define, but are not limited to defining,equipment on/off set points, desired operating ranges (e.g.,temperature, pressure, flowrate ranges, etc.), data analyses to beperformed, identifying other network edge devices to communicate withfor additional data, control signal command and acknowledgement rulesand protocols for the operational asset, actions to take if “out ofrange” conditions occur, and levels of escalation (e.g., notifications,alerts, or alarms to send/activate).

In some examples, a location detection module 440 is a component of thecontrol system 406 that detects the geographic location of the networkedge device 214 and, by extension, the operational asset 320 to whichthe network edge device 214 is connected. For example, the locationdetection module 440 can be a GPS receiver, a cellular triangulationsystem, or a WiFi positioning system. In some implementations, thenetwork edge device 214 can provide position data from the locationdetection module 440 when the network edge device 214 provides dataupdates to the backend network 107. In some examples, along with thelocation data, the network edge device 214 the network edge device 214can provide identification data for either or both the network edgedevice 214 and the operational asset 320 associated with the networkedge device 214, for example, so the backend network 107 can track thelocation of the operational asset 320 if the operational asset 320 is amobile asset.

In some examples, a user interface (UI) engine 442 is a component of thecontrol system 406 that can generate graphical user interfaces (GUIs) topresent operational asset data on mobile computing devices. For example,the UI engine 442 can communicate with a corresponding application on amobile computing device 102 through the low power network interface 444to present GUI representations of the operational asset data received bythe network edge device 214. In some examples, the UI engine 442 cangenerate GUI representations of traditional analog or digital gauges andmeters. In some, examples, the UI engine 442 can generate GUIrepresentations of graphs and charts that represent the results ofvarious data analyses performed by the data processing module 432. Thus,the network edge device 214 may permit well-site workers to verify theoperation of multiple well-site operational assets 320 from the comfortof a vehicle or on-site office.

In some implementations, the system architecture 400 can be implementedas various hardware components (e.g., processors and controllers). Insome implementations, the system architecture 400 can be implemented inthe firmware of a network edge device 214.

FIG. 5 depicts example sequence diagrams 500, 520, 540 of communicationmodes for a network edge device 214 in accordance with implementationsof the present disclosure. The sequence diagrams depict examplecommunications between a backend network 107, a network edge device 214,and an operational asset 320 in accordance with implementations of thepresent disclosure.

The sequence diagram 500 is a diagram of a direct connect tunneling(DCT) communication mode. In the depicted example, the network edgedevice 214 acts as a communication conduit for the backend network 107to control operations of the operational asset 320. In the DCTcommunication mode, most or all data manipulation decisions and controlsare directed by the backend network 107.

In some examples, the backend network 107 polls the operational asset320 for data by issuing a data request 502. The network edge device 214receives the request 502 and passes the request 502 on to theoperational asset 320. In response to the request 502, the operationalasset 320 sends the requested data 504 to the network edge device 214.In some examples, the network edge device may not send the request 502to the operational asset 320 (e.g., in the case of an analog sensor),but instead, can sample the data output of the operational asset 320 inorder to obtain the data 504. The network edge device 214 then sends thedata 504 to the backend network 107.

In some examples, the network edge device 214 can, optionally, process506 the data to reformat the data 504 from a data format provided by theoperational asset 320 (e.g., raw voltage signals) into a data formatused by the backend network 107 (e.g., a unified data format). Thenetwork edge device 214 then sends the reformatted data 504 to thebackend network 107.

The DCT communication mode can be used in a similar manner for a backendnetwork 107 to control the operations of an operational asset 320. Forexample, the backend network can issue a command or a control signal tothe operational asset 320. The network edge device 214 receives thecommand or a control signal and passes the command or a control signalon to the operational asset 320. In response to the command or a controlsignal, the operational asset alters its operation in accordance withthe command or control signal.

The sequence diagram 520 is a diagram of a store and forward (S&F)communication mode. In the depicted example, the network edge device 214controls data gathering functions for the backend network 107. Thenetwork edge device 214 initiates communications with both the backendnetwork 107 and the operational asset 320 on different time intervals.For example, the network edge device 214 polls the operational asset 320for data on data sampling intervals (e.g., every minute), and transmitsa series of data from the operational asset 320 to the backend networkon data upload intervals (e.g., every hour). Generally, the datasampling interval is shorter than the data upload interval and thenetwork edge device 214 stores the sampled data between data uploadintervals. In the S&F communication mode, the network edge device 214manages most or all of the data gathering process while the backendnetwork 107 manages the control of the operational asset 320.

In some examples, the network edge device 214 polls the operationalasset 320 for data by issuing a data request 522. In response to therequest 522, the operational asset 320 sends the requested data 524 tothe network edge device 214. In some examples, the network edge devicemay not send the request 502 to the operational asset 320 (e.g., in thecase of an analog sensor), but instead, can sample the data output ofthe operational asset 320 in order to obtain the data 524. The networkedge device 214 then stores the data 524 from the operational asset 320.In some examples, the network edge device 214 stores the data 524 insame format that the data was received from the operational asset 320.For example, the data 524 may be in a raw data format such as sensorvoltage values. In some examples, the network edge device 214 canreformat the data 524 into a format specific to the backend network 107and store the data in the backend network data format.

In some examples, the process described above, of polling theoperational asset 320 to obtain data 524 and storing the data 524 isrepeated at different times. For example, the network edge device 214can poll the operational asset 320 on a regular sampling interval toobtain a series of data 524 over time. In some examples, a samplinginterval may be specific to a particular operational asset 320. In someexamples, the sampling interval for an operational asset 320 can bebased on an expected rate of change of the data measured by theoperational asset 320. For example, a sampling interval for a tank levelsensor in which the fluid level is expected to change appreciably at aslow rate (e.g., hourly) can be longer than a sampling interval for anwell-head pressure sensor that monitors a pressure that may change morerapidly (e.g., in minutes or seconds). In some examples, a samplinginterval for a particular operational asset 320 or type of operationalasset is defined in the asset template.

In some examples, the network edge device 214 enters a low power mode(e.g., a sleep mode) between data sampling intervals. For example, a lowpower mode can be an operational mode of the network edge device 214 inwhich nonessential components may be powered down. In some examples, thenetwork edge device 214 may power down all components except an intervaltimer or interrupt circuit to trigger the network edge device 214 totransition out of the low power mode at an appropriate time. In someexamples, the backend network 107 transmits data or commands to thenetwork edge device 214 when the network edge device 214 is not in a lowpower mode, for example, during an upload interval.

In some examples, after several sampling intervals, the network edgedevice 214 processes 526 the stored data 524 from a data format providedby the operational asset 320 (e.g., raw voltage signals) into a dataformat used by the backend network 107 (e.g., a unified data format).The network edge device 214 then sends the reformatted data 528 to thebackend network 107. In some examples, the network edge device 214uploads stored data 528 to the backend network 107 on regular uploadintervals. For example, the backend network 107 or the asset templatemay define an upload interval. The upload interval can be a definedperiod of time or can be based on accumulating a defined amount of data.

In some examples, the network edge device 214 can pre-process the datafor the backend network 107 by, for example, performing data analyseslocally before sending the data to the backend network 107. For example,data analyses can include, but are not limited to, filtering the data,comparing the data to equipment alarm limits, performing frequencyanalysis (e.g., FFT analysis), trend analysis, power consumptionanalysis, motor current analysis (e.g., identifying magnitude andharmonic content), sensor noise analysis, sensor data linearization,temperature profiling, identifying equipment operational healthsignatures (e.g., failure analysis), plunger lift control optimizationanalysis, and chemical pump control. In some examples, the network edgedevice 214 can upload data to the backend network 107 outside of (e.g.,prior to) an upload interval, for example, based on the results of adata analysis. For example, if the network edge device 214 determinesthat the data 524 violates an alarm limit, the network edge device 214can upload the data and a notification that data violates the alarmlimit in real-time (e.g., soon after the alarming condition isdetermined).

The sequence diagram 540 is a diagram of an autonomous communicationmode. In the depicted example, the network edge device 214 controls datagathering functions for the backend network 107 and provides a level oflocal autonomous control of an operational asset 320. As in the S&Fmode, the network edge device 214 initiates communications with both thebackend network 107 and the operational asset 320 on different timeintervals. In addition, in the autonomous mode, the network edge device214 can analyze the received data and determine whether to changeoperating parameters (e.g., turn equipment on/off, change pump speed,change valve position, etc.) of an operational asset 320.

In some examples, the network edge device 214 polls the operationalasset 320 for data by issuing a data request 542. In response to therequest 522, the operational asset 320 sends the requested data 544 tothe network edge device 214. In some examples, the network edge devicemay not send the request 502 to the operational asset 320 (e.g., in thecase of an analog sensor), but instead, can sample the data output ofthe operational asset 320 in order to obtain the data 544. The networkedge device 214 then processes 546 the data 544 to determine whether tochange an operating parameter(s) of the operational asset 320. Forexample, the network edge device 214 can compare the received data 544to operating requirements (e.g., operating flow rates, pressure ranges,temperature ranges, etc.) to determine whether and, if so, how to alterthe operating parameter(s) of the operational asset 320.

In some examples, the network edge device can process 546 the data 544in conjunction with stored data to determine whether and, if so, how tochange an operating parameter(s) of the operational asset 320. Forexample, the network edge device 214 can process 546 the data 544 byperforming data analyses to determine whether and how to change anoperating parameter(s) of the operational asset 320. For example, dataanalyses can include, but are not limited to, filtering the data,comparing the data to equipment alarm limits, performing frequencyanalysis (e.g., FFT analysis), trend analysis, power consumptionanalysis, motor current analysis (e.g., identifying magnitude andharmonic content), sensor noise analysis, sensor data linearization,temperature profiling, identifying equipment operational healthsignatures (e.g., failure analysis), plunger lift control optimizationanalysis, and chemical pump control.

In some implementations, the network edge device 214 can communicatewith other network edge devices (e.g., at the same well-site) through alow power network (e.g., a BLE network) to obtain data from otheroperational assets 320 (e.g., sensor) and use the data from the otheroperational assets 320 to determine whether and how to change anoperating parameter(s) of the operational asset 320. For example, afirst network edge device 214 connected to a pump for a chemicalinjection tank may determine based on flow data from a sensor associatedwith the pump that the pump speed should be increased, however, afterobtaining additional data from a second network edge device 214connected to a level indicator that indicates the tank is nearly empty,the first network edge device 214 can instead shut down the pump andreport the condition to the backend network 107.

In some examples, operational rules associated with the particularoperational asset 320 or a type of operational asset to which thenetwork edge device 214 is connected are included in the asset template.For example, operational rules can define, but are not limited todefining, equipment on/off set points, desired operating ranges (e.g.,temperature, pressure, flowrate ranges, etc.), data analyses to beperformed, identifying other network edge devices to communicate withfor additional data, actions to take if “out of range” conditions occur,and levels of escalation (e.g., notifications, alerts, or alarms tosend/activate).

Once the network edge device 214 has determined whether and, if so, howto adjust an operating parameter of the operational asset 320, thenetwork edge device 214 can generate and send a command or controlsignal 548 to the operational asset 320 to control the operational asset320.

The network edge device 214 can store the data 544 from the operationalasset 320 and log any operational parameter changes. In some examples,the network edge device 214 stores the data 544 in same format that thedata was received from the operational asset 320. For example, the data544 may be in a raw data format such as sensor voltage values. In someexamples, the network edge device 214 can reformat the data 544 into aformat specific to the backend network 107 and store the data in thebackend network data format.

In some examples, the process described above, of polling theoperational asset 320 to obtain data 544, processing 546 the data 544,controlling the operational asset 320 by sending commands or controlsignals 548, and storing the data 544 is repeated at different times.For example, the network edge device 214 can poll the operational asset320 for data and make control adjustments on a regular samplinginterval. In some examples, a sampling and control interval may bespecific to a particular operational asset 320. In some examples, thesampling and control interval for an operational asset 320, can be basedon an expected rate of change of the data measured by the operationalasset 320. For example, a sampling and control interval for a tank levelsensor in which the fluid level is expected to change appreciably at aslow rate (e.g., hourly) can be longer than a sampling and controlinterval for an well-head pressure sensor that monitors a pressure thatmay change more rapidly (e.g., in minutes or seconds). In some examples,a sampling and control interval for a particular operational asset 320or type of operational asset is defined in the asset template.

In some examples, the network edge device 214 enters a low power mode(e.g., a sleep mode) between data sampling and control intervals. Forexample, a low power mode can be an operational mode of the network edgedevice 214 in which nonessential components may be powered down. In someexamples, the network edge device 214 may power down all componentsexcept an interval timer or interrupt circuit to trigger the networkedge device to transition out of the low power mode. In some examples,the backend network 107 must transmit data or commands to the networkedge device 214 when the network edge device 214 is not in a low powermode, for example, during an upload interval.

In some examples, after several sampling and control intervals, thenetwork edge device 214 processes 550 the stored data 544 from a dataformat provided by the operational asset 320 (e.g., raw voltage signals)and converts the data along with any logged control functions into adata format used by the backend network 107 (e.g., a unified dataformat). The network edge device 214 then sends the reformattedoperational asset data and control log data 552 to the backend network107. In some examples, the network edge device 214 uploads storedoperational asset data and control log data to the backend network 107on regular upload intervals. For example, the backend network 107 or theasset template may define an upload interval. The upload interval can bea defined period of time or can be based on accumulating a definedamount of data.

As in the S&F mode, in some examples, the network edge device 214 canupload data to the backend network 107 outside of (e.g., prior to) anupload interval, for example, based on the results of a data analysis.For example, if the network edge device 214 determines that the data 524violates an alarm limit, the network edge device 214 can upload the dataand a notification that data violates the alarm limit in real-time(e.g., soon after the alarming condition is determined).

In some examples, the network edge device 214 is remains incommunication with the backend network 107 to upload data and controlstatus for the operational asset 320. For example, the network edgedevice 214 can remain receptive to interrogations and commands from thebackend network 107. In some examples, the connection with the backendnetwork 107 is run as a separate processing thread (e.g., backgroundthread) so as not to disturb the local real-time control operations. Insome examples, running the connection in a separate thread allows thenetwork edge device 107 to shift unnecessary components (e.g.,processors) into a low power mode when local data gathering and controlfunctions are complete for a given time interval. For example, only thecommunication interface with the backend network 107 and a wakeup timermay remain operational during a low power mode.

In some implementations, the backend network 107 can instruct a networkedge device 214 to shift between any of the three communication modesdiscussed above. In some implementations, a network edge device 214 canautomatically shift out of the DCT communication mode and into eitherthe S&F communication mode or the autonomous communication mode upondetection a mode shift condition. An example mode shift condition may bedegradation in or loss off communications with the backend network. Forexample, if the quality of communications with the backend network 107drops below a threshold level, a network edge device 214 canautomatically shift out of the DCT mode and into either the S&F orautonomous mode, for example, to prevent loss of data from and/orinterruption in control of an operational asset 320. Likewise, in someimplementations, a network edge device 214 can shift from an S&Fcommunication mode to an autonomous mode in response to a mode shiftcondition. For example, upon detecting a reduced quality ofcommunications with the backend network 107, a network edge device 214can automatically shift from an S&F mode to an autonomous mode, forexample, to prevent the interruption in control of an operational asset320. As another example, a network edge device 214 may operate in theDCT communication mode as “principle” mode or thread, while concurrentlymonitoring operational asset data for indications uncharacteristic dataor operation (e.g., indications of asset failure or damage) as aseparate, “background” mode or thread. The network edge device 214 canshift to an S&F mode of operation upon detecting uncharacteristic dataor asset operation, for example, to ensure that sufficient data isretained to perform a failure analysis on the operational asset 320.

FIG. 6 depicts an example process 600 for facilitating datacommunications between an operational asset and a backend network thatcan be executed in accordance with implementations of the presentdisclosure. In some examples, the example process 600 can be provided asone or more computer-executable programs executed using one or morecomputing devices. In some examples, the process 600 is executed tocommunicate data from an operational asset to a backend network wherethe backend network is agnostic to communication protocols of theoperational asset.

First data is received from an operational asset; the first data isformatted according to a first data format that is specific to theoperational asset (602). For example, the first data can be receivedfrom an asset communication interface of a network edge device. Theasset communication interface can be configured to interface with theoperational asset according to communication protocols of theoperational asset. In some examples, the first data format can be analogvoltage or current signals. In some examples, the first data format canbe a digital data format specific to the operational asset.

The first data is processed according to an asset template to generatesecond data that includes the first data and is formatted according to asecond data format that is specific to a backend network (604). Forexample, the asset template can identify the first data format that isspecificity to the operational asset and the second data format for datato be sent to the backend network. The asset template can be used by anetwork edge device to translate the data from the first data format tothe second data format, thereby, allowing the backend network to receivedata from the operational asset while being agnostic to thecommunication protocols of the operational asset.

The second data is transmitted to the backend network in the second dataformat that is specific to the backend network (606). For example, thenetwork edge device can cause a backend network communication interfaceto transmit the second data to the backend network. The backend networkcommunication interface can be configured to interface with the backendnetwork according to communication protocols of the backend network.

FIG. 7 depicts an example process 700 for facilitating datacommunications between an operational asset and a backend network thatcan be executed in accordance with implementations of the presentdisclosure. In some examples, the example process 700 can be provided asone or more computer-executable programs executed using one or morecomputing devices. In some examples, the process 700 is executed tocontrol an operational asset by a backend network where the backendnetwork is agnostic to communication protocols of the operational asset.

Instructions are received from a backend network to change an operatingparameter of an operational asset (702). For example, the first data canbe received from an asset communication interface of a network edgedevice. The backend network communication interface can be configured tointerface with the backend network according to communication protocolsof the backend network.

A control signal to change the operating parameter of the operationalasset is generated in accordance with the instructions and based on anasset template (704). For example, the asset template can identifycontrol signal formats or protocols for an operational asset (e.g.,analog or digital signals for controlling the asset). The asset templatecan be used by a network edge device to generate appropriate controlsignals to change operating parameter(s) of the operational asset inaccordance with the instructions from the backend network. Thus, thebackend network can control the operational asset while remainingagnostic to the control protocol of the operational asset.

The control signal is transmitted to the operational asset (706). Forexample, the network edge device can cause an asset communicationinterface to transmit the control signal to the operational device. Theasset communication interface can be configured to interface with theoperational asset according to communication protocols of theoperational asset.

FIG. 8 depicts an example process flow 800 for installing andconfiguring a network edge device 214 in accordance with implementationsof the present disclosure. The following process is describe inreference to the example context of installing and configuring a networkedge device 214 to interface with a pump 802 and an associated pressuresensor 806. However, a similar process may be used to install andconfigure a network edge device to interface with a variety of differentoperational assets.

FIG. 8 shows a network edge device 214 connected to a controller 804 fora pump 802 and a pressure sensor 806 associated with the pump 802. Asdescribed above in reference to FIG. 4, the network edge device 214includes a backend network interface 402 and a low power networkinterface 444. The network edge device 214 is powered on and establishescommunications with a backend network 107 and a user computing device102.

For example, the network edge device 214 can establish communicationswith the backend network 107 through the backend network communicationinterface 402. In some examples, the network edge device 107 can beconfigured to communicate with the backend network 107 through one ormore of a cellular communication channel, a satellite communicationchannel, or a RPMA communication channel. In some examples, the networkedge device 107 is pre-configured with an appropriate RF module for aparticular type of communication channel. In some examples, the networkedge device 214 includes multiple RF modules and the network edge device214 can select an appropriate communication channel. For example,well-sites can often be located in remote areas, and the best availablecommunication channel (e.g., cellular, satellite, or RPMA) may not beknown prior to a user (e.g., a service technician) arriving on site toinstall the network edge device 214. Thus, a network edge device 214 canbe configured to select between multiple communication channels when itattempts to connect to the backend network 107. In some examples, thenetwork edge device 214 selects a communication channel based on signalstrength, data rate, or a combination of the two.

In addition, the network edge device 214 can establish communicationswith the user computing device 102 through a low power network interface444 (e.g., a BLE interface). In some examples, the user computing device102 can interface with the network edge device 214 through anapplication (e.g., an “app”) executed by the user computing device 102.For example, the user computing device 102 can include a networkinterface device setup application (“setup app”). The setup app canpermit a user to monitor the operation of the network edge device 214and the operational asset (e.g., the pump 802 and sensor 806). Inaddition, the network edge device 214 can be configured for operationwith the pump 802 and sensor 806 through the setup app.

The network edge device 214 may be connected to the pump controller 804and pressure sensor 806 either before or after the network edge device214 is powered on an establishes communications with the backend networkand/or the user computing device 102. In some implementations, the setupapp allows a user to access installation instructions that can includewiring diagrams for connecting the pump controller 804 and sensor 806 tothe network edge device 214.

The network edge device 214 receives an asset template 428 from eitherthe backend network 107 or the user computing device 102. The assettemplate 428 can be specific to a particular model of the pump 802 andsensor 806 or the asset template 428 can be more generic, for example,an asset template 428 for a general pump and pressure sensor. Forexample, an asset template 428 that is specific to a particular model ofan operational asset may require less manual configuration from a userthan an asset template 428 that is specific to a general type ofoperational asset (e.g., a pump, compressor, temperature sensor, orpressure sensor).

In some examples, a user can download an asset template 428 to the usercomputing device 102 (e.g., before traveling to a well-site) and uploadthe asset template 428 to the network edge device 214 from the usercomputing device 102. In some examples, a user can select an appropriateasset template 428 through the user computing device 102 (e.g., througha menu on the setup app). The user computing device 102 can send dataidentifying the appropriate asset template 428 to the network edgedevice 214, and the network edge device 214 can request the appropriateasset template 428 from the backend network 107. In someimplementations, the network edge device 214 can automatically determinethe type and/or model of an operational asset, and request anappropriate asset template 428 from the backend network 107 itself. Forexample, if the pump 802 is a computer controlled pump controller 804(e.g., an “intelligent-controller”) the network edge device 214 canrequest identification data from the pump controller 804 and send theidentification data to the backend network 107 with the request for theasset template 428. In some implementations, a network edge device 214can identify a the type of operational asset 320 that is connected tothe network edge device 214 by performing a command/response analysis.For example, the network edge device 214 can send predefined commands,control signals, or interrogations to an operational asset 320 andidentify the type of the operational asset by the response(s) receivedfrom the commands. In some examples, the network edge device 214 can usemulti-parsing techniques to narrow down unique asset responses.

As described above, the asset template 428 can facilitate communicationbetween the backend network 107 and the pump controller 804 and/orsensor 806 while permitting the backend network to be agnostic to thecommunication protocols of the pump controller 804 and/or sensor 806 andpermitting the pump controller 804 and/or sensor 806 to be agnostic tocommunication protocols of the backend network 107.

In some implementations, the network edge device 214 receives user inputfrom the user computing device 102 to modify the asset template 428. Forexample, a user may need to modify an asset template 428 to adapt theasset template 428 to the desired operation of a particular operationalasset. For example, it may be necessary to modify a general assettemplate for a pump 802 for operation with a particular model pump 802.Similarly, it may be necessary to modify an asset template 428 toinclude operating ranges of a pump 802 based on operating requirementsat a particular well-site. In some examples, it may be necessary tomodify an asset template 428 to set a communication mode for the networkedge device 214 or to schedule data reporting intervals and datasampling intervals based on well-site or customer requirements. Uponreceiving such modifications from the user computing device 102, thenetwork edge device 214 can make appropriate modifications to the assettemplate 428. In some implementations, the user computing device 102(e.g., the setup app) or the backend network 107 make the modificationsto the asset template 428 before sending the asset template 428 to thenetwork edge device 214.

In some implementations, a user can verify the operation of the networkedge device 214 by, for example, streaming data 808 from the pumpcontroller 804 and/or sensor 806 to the user computing device 102through the network edge device 214. The network edge device 214 cansimulate transmitting the data 808 to the backend network 107 by, forexample, formatting the data in a data format specific to the backendnetwork 107 based on the asset template 428 before sending the data tothe user computing device 102. In some examples, the setup app on theuser computing device 102 can emulate the backend network 107, forexample, to verify proper data formatting.

In some examples, the network edge device 214 can send data fordisplaying measurement data 808 from the pump controller 804 or thesensor 806 as a graphical representation of an analog gauge or digitalmeter display. For example, the network edge device 214 can identify agauge or meter type that is appropriate to the pressure sensor 806 suchas an analog pressure gauge. In some examples, the network edge device214 determines an appropriate gage or meter type based on data containedin the asset template 428.

In some implementations, the network edge device 214 can assist withtroubleshooting unexpected data 808 readouts from the operational asset.For example, the network edge device 214 can enter a troubleshootingmode. In the troubleshooting mode, a network edge device 214 can varythe formatting of sensor measurement data 808 that is sent to the usercomputing device 102. For example, a network edge device 214 can senddata 808 to the user computing device 102 at various levels ofabstraction to aid a user in determining the source of a potentialproblem and making appropriate modifications to the network edge device214, the connection between the network edge device and the operationalasset (e.g., sensor 806), or the asset template 428.

For example, the network edge device 214 can provide the data 808 to theuser computing device 102 in various different formats that allows auser to step through the data processing performed by the network edgedevice 214. For example, if data displayed on the user computing device102 is in an improper format or is inaccurate, the network edge device214 can allow a user to view data in a different format. For example,the network edge device 214 can send the data 808 to the user computingdevice in the same format that the data 808 is received from theoperational asset (e.g., raw or unformatted data). The data 808 can thenbe displayed as either digital data packets (e.g., if the operationalasset is a computer controlled device) or as analog voltage or currentvalues. As a non-limiting example, levels of data abstraction for apressure transducer can include voltage levels (e.g., 1-5V), pressurevalues corresponding to the voltage levels (e.g., 1-5V=0-100 psi), andtank/container volume (e.g., volume in gallons derived from thesize/shape of a tank and the hydrostatic pressure). As anothernon-limiting example, levels of data abstraction for a digital data caninclude little endian vs big endian byte order, fixed vs float formats,etc. The abstraction levels can be varied iteratively to compare withobservable, real world values.

The network edge device 214 registers with the backend network 107 to go“online” with the backend network 107. For example, network edge device214 can go “online” with the backend network 107 by beginning to sendthe data 808 from the pump controller 804 and the sensor 806 to thebackend network 107 and by beginning to receive control instructionsfrom the backend network 107 for controlling the pump 802 (orcontrolling the pump 802 autonomously from the network edge device 214,as described above). In some examples, the network edge device 214receives a command from the user computing device 102 to register withthe backend network 107. For example, after a user has verified properoperation of the network edge device 214 on the user computing device102, the user may select an input on the setup app to cause the networkedge device to register with the backend network 107. In some examples,registering with the backend network 107 can include sendingregistration data that identifies the network edge device 214 and/or theoperational asset(s) (e.g., pump 802 and sensor 806) connected to thenetwork edge device 214. Registration data can include, but is notlimited to, a serial or model number of the network edge device 214, atype of the operational asset, a model number of the operational asset,a serial number of the operational asset, and registration credentials(e.g., a code or password), location data (e.g., GPS data), installationanomalies, maintenance tips, and accessibility information (e.g., gatecodes, undocumented streets, trails).

A setup app can include a GUI such as example GUI 820. For example, theGUI 820 shows status indicators 822 that indicate the status of thenetwork edge device 214 as connected to a pump with an analog controllerand connected to the backend network 107 through a cellularcommunication channel. In addition, the GUI 820 includes a hyperlink 824to wiring instructions for connecting the pump 802 to the network edgedevice 214.

In some examples, the GUI 820 can include an asset template selectionmenu 826. For example, a user can select an appropriate template totransfer to a network edge device 214 from a list of asset templatessuch as a compressor template or a pump template. In some examples, theGUI 820 can include a selectable control 828 for uploading a selectedtemplate to the network edge device 214. Although not shown, in someexamples, the GUI 820 can include a selectable control for causing thenetwork edge device 214 to download a selected asset template 428 fromthe backend network 107.

In some implementations, the GUI can include a selectable control 830for modifying a selected asset template 428. For example, selection ofthe selectable control 830 can cause the setup app to display a templatemodification GUI (not shown). A template modification GUI can provide auser with appropriate menu selections and input controls for modifyingvarious aspects of an asset template 428, as discussed above. In someexamples, a setup app can include options for saving the modified assettemplate 428 to the backend network 107. For example, a modified assettemplate 428 can be added to an asset template library as a templatespecific to a particular operational asset or template specific to acustomer or a well-site.

In some examples, as discussed above, the GUI 820 can display data froman operational asset (e.g., pressure sensor 806) as a graphicalrepresentation 832 of a traditional gauge or meter. For example, GUI 820includes a graphical representation 832 of a pressure gauge. As notedabove, the network edge device 214 can send data for displayingmeasurement data 808 from the pump controller 804 or the sensor 806 in aas graphical representation of a traditional gauge or meter. Forexample, the network edge device 214 can identify a gauge or meter typethat is appropriate to the pressure sensor 806 such as an analogpressure gauge. The setup app can render the appropriate graphicalrepresentation 832 in the GUI 820.

In some examples, the GUI 820 includes a selectable control 838 forentering a troubleshooting mode. For example, as discussed above, anetwork edge device 214 can provide a troubleshooting mode that allows auser to view the data 808 from an operational asset at various levels ofabstraction. For example, the GUI 820 shows voltage data 836 frompressure sensor 806. The troubleshooting mode may permit a user toproperly calibrate the network edge device 214 to interpret data from anoperational asset such as an analog pressure sensor 806, for example.

In some examples, the GUI 820 includes a selectable control 838 forregistering the operational asset and/or network edge device 214 withthe backend network 107 and bringing the operational asset and networkedge device 214 “online” with the backend network 107. For example, uponselection of the selectable 838, the setup app may request a code orpassword from a user to register the network edge device 214 with thebackend network 107.

FIG. 9 depicts an example process 900 for configuring a network edgedevice for communicating between an operational asset and a backendnetwork that can be executed in accordance with implementations of thepresent disclosure. In some examples, the example process 900 can beprovided as one or more computer-executable programs executed using oneor more processors of a network edge device. In some examples, theprocess 900 is executed to setup a network edge device for facilitatingcommunications between a backend network and an operational asset wherethe backend network and operational device are agnostic to communicationprotocols of each other.

A network edge device establishes communications with a backend network(902). The network edge device establishes communications with a usercomputing device. For example, the network edge device can establishcommunications with the backend network through a first networkconnection and establish communications with the user computing devicethrough a second network connection. For example, the network edgedevice can communicate with the backend network over a cellular,satellite, or RPMA network connection, and communicate with the usercomputing device through a low power network connection (e.g., a BLEnetwork, a local WiFi network, a ZigBee network).

The network edge device receives an asset template associated with anoperational asset to which the network edge device is coupled (906). Forexample, an asset template can identify communication protocols of thebackend network and communication protocols of the operational asset towhich the network edge device is coupled. The network edge device can beconfigured to use the asset template to coordinate communicationsbetween the backend network and the operational asset while permittingthe backend network and the operational asset to each be agnostic tocommunication protocols of the other. In some examples, the network edgedevice can use the asset template to coordinate control of theoperational asset by the backend network.

The network edge device sends registration data to the backend network(908). For example, the network edge device can send the registrationdata to the backend network after receiving an instruction from the usercomputing device. For example, registration data can include, but is notlimited to, a serial or model number of the network edge device 214, atype of the operational asset, a model number of the operational asset,a serial number of the operational asset, and registration credentials(e.g., a code or password), location data (e.g., GPS data), installationanomalies, maintenance tips, and accessibility information (e.g., gatecodes, undocumented streets, trails). In some examples, the network edgedevice registers with the backend network to begin processingcommunications between the backend network and the operational asset;the network edge device goes “online” with the backend network. In someimplementations, the registration of the network edge device and/or theoperational asset with the backend network completes the configurationprocess for the network edge device.

FIGS. 10A and 10B depict a first example embodiment of a network edgedevice 1000 in accordance with implementations of the presentdisclosure. FIG. 10B depicts an exploded view of the electroniccomponents of the network edge device 1000. The network edge device 1000includes a housing 1002 that contains an electronic control board 1004.The electronic control board 1004 includes one or more processors andcomputer-readable memory. The computer-readable memory includesinstructions that cause the processors to perform the operationsdescribed herein. For example, the control board 1004 can include acombination of electronic hardware components and computer firmware toimplement the system architecture described above in reference to FIG.4.

Furthermore, the control board 1004 includes a modem connection port(not shown) for receiving an RF modem module (e.g., RF modules 412 a-412n of FIG. 4). For example, a modem connection port can be acommunication interface port configured to receive one or more ofvarious different types of detachable RF modem modules. An RF modemmodule can be implemented as an RF modem board 1006 a-1006 c that can beconnected to the modem connection port. The RF modem board 1006 a-1006 cincludes one of a variety of types of RF modems configured to performelectronic communications. Various types of RF modem boards can include,but are not limited to, an RPMA modem board 1006 a, a satellitecommunication modem board 1006 b, and a cellular communication modemboard 1006 c. In addition, the network edge device 1000 includesdetachable antenna(s) 1014 mounted to the housing that can be connectedto an RF modem board 1006 a-1006 c installed in the network edge device1000. The type of installed antenna(s) correspond to the type of RFmodem installed in the network edge device 1000.

In some implementations, the control board 1004 can be configured toautomatically identify the type of modem board 1006 a-1006 c connectedto the modem connection port. Further, the control board 1004 (e.g.,instructions stored on the control board 1004) can adapt the operationsof the network edge device 1000 to the type of modem board 1006 a-1006 cconnected to the modem connection port. For example, the operations ofthe network edge device 1000 can be adapted to communicate with aninstalled RF modem board 1006 a-1006 c according to a communicationprotocol that is specific to the type of RF modem on the board. Thus,the network edge device 1000 may be configured or reconfigured foroperation with different communication networks by changing the RF modemboard 1006 a-1006 c to an appropriate type.

The control board 1004 includes a wiring bay 1008 for connectingoperational assets to the network edge device 1000. The wiring bay 1008includes various different types of input and output (I/O) interfacesfor connecting a variety of different analog, digital, and computercontrolled operational assets. The wiring bay 1008 I/O interfacesinclude appropriate circuitry and software to receive and transmitappropriate signals. For example, the wiring bay 1008 I/O interfaces caninclude, but are not limited to, serial data communication interface(s)(e.g., RS232, RS485, USB, etc.), analog current signal inputinterface(s), analog current signal output interface(s), analog voltagesignal input interface(s), pulse signal input interface(s), digitalsignal input interface(s), and temperature sensor input interface(s)(e.g., a thermistor interface, a resistance temperature detector (RTD)interface, or a thermocouple interface).

In some implementations, the control board 1004 includes an I/Oexpansion port 1009. The I/O expansion port 1009 is configured toreceive a detachable I/O expansion board 1010. For example, the I/Oexpansion board 1010 can be added to a network interface device 1000 toaccommodate the connection of additional operational assets to thenetwork interface device 1000 if the wiring bay 1008 I/O interfaces areinsufficient. In some implementations, the I/O expansion board 1010includes a motor controller. For example, the I/O expansion board 1010can be added to a network edge device 1000 for controlling a motor thatdoes not have a separate motor controller or as a replacement (e.g.,upgraded) motor controller. In some implementations, an I/O expansionboard 1010 includes, but is not limited to including, the following I/Ointerfaces: a motor controller, serial data communication interface(s),analog current signal input interface(s), analog current signal outputinterface(s), analog voltage signal input interface(s), pulse signalinput interface(s), digital signal input interface(s), and temperaturesensor input interface(s).

In some implementations, the control board 1004 is configured to receivea detachable battery module 1012. For example, the battery module 1012can be connected to the control board 1004 for providing battery powerto the network edge device 1000. The battery module 1012 can serve aseither a primary or a backup power source for the network edge device1000.

FIGS. 11A and 11B depict a second example embodiment of a network edgedevice 1100 in accordance with implementations of the presentdisclosure. FIG. 11B depicts an exploded view of the electroniccomponents of the network edge device 1100. The network edge device 1100shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B is similar to the network edge device 1000shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, however, the network edge device 1100 has amore compact design. The network edge device 1100 includes a housing1002 that contains an electronic control board 1004. The electroniccontrol board 1004 includes one or more processors and computer-readablememory. The computer-readable memory includes instructions that causethe processors to perform the operations described herein. For example,the control board 1004 can include a combination of electronic hardwarecomponents and computer firmware to implement the system architecturedescribed above in reference to FIG. 4.

Furthermore, the control board 1004 includes a modem connection port(not shown) for receiving an RF modem module (e.g., RF modules 412 a-412n of FIG. 4). For example, a modem connection port can be acommunication interface port configured to receive one or more ofvarious types of detachable RF modem modules (e.g., RF modem board1006). Although only one RF modem board 1006 is shown, the RF modemboard 1006 can be, but is not limited to, any of the types of RF modemboards discussed above. As discussed above, the control board 1004 canbe configured to automatically identify the type of modem board 1006connected to the modem connection port.

In illustrated implementation of the network edge device 1100, thewiring bay 1008 is included on an I/O board 1110 that is separate from,but connected to, the control board 1004. The wiring bay 1008 allows forconnecting operational assets to the network edge device 1100. Thewiring bay 1008 includes a various different types of input and output(I/O) interfaces for connecting a variety of different analog, digital,and computer controlled operational assets. The wiring bay 1008 I/Ointerfaces include appropriate circuitry and software to receive andtransmit appropriate signals. For example, the wiring bay 1008 I/Ointerfaces can include, but are not limited to, serial datacommunication interface(s) (e.g., RS232, RS485, USB, etc.), analogcurrent signal input interface(s), analog current signal outputinterface(s), analog voltage signal input interface(s), pulse signalinput interface(s), digital signal input interface(s), and temperaturesensor input interface(s) (e.g., a thermistor interface, a resistancetemperature detector (RTD) interface, or a thermocouple interface).

The I/O board 1110, control board 1004, and RF modem board 1006 arearranged in stacked arrangement along with a battery compartment 1112inside a more compact housing 1002. That is, the stacked arrangement ofboards 1110, 1004, and 1006 may permit the circuitry of the network edgedevice 1100 to be housed in a more compact housing 1002 than theembodiment shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B. The battery compartment 1112houses batteries for providing either primary or backup power to thenetwork edge device 1100. In some examples, the housing 1002 includes adetachable cover 1102. The cover 1102 can include threading thatinterfaces with corresponding threading 1104 on the housing 1002 toattach the cover 1102 to the housing 1002.

In some implementations, the housing 1002 includes a threaded connection1106 for mounting the network edge device 1100 directly to anoperational asset 1107 (e.g., a sensor). In some implementations, thethreaded connection point 1106 can be used to connect a conduit (e.g., aflexible or shielded conduit) containing wiring from an operationalasset to the network edge device 1100.

In addition, the network edge device 1100 includes a detachable antenna1014 mounted to the housing that can be connected to an installed RFmodem board 1006. The type of installed antenna corresponds to the typeof RF modem installed in the network edge device 1100. In someimplementations, the antenna 1014 can be mounted to the housing 1002 bya threaded connection 1108.

In some implementations, the network edge device 1000 or 1100 isdesigned to meet or exceed a National Electric Code (NEC) classificationfor an explosion proof device in an explosive gas area. For example, thenetwork edge device 1000 or 1100 can be designed to meet or exceed anNEC classification for use in an NEC Class I Division 1 (CID1) locationor an NEC Class I Division 2 (CID2) location.

FIGS. 12-15 illustrate various wiring configurations for connectingoperational assets to either the wiring bay 1008 or an I/O expansionboard 1010 of a network edge device. The following figures anddescriptions serve as non-limiting examples of the variety of inputtypes and configurations that can be included in network edge devicesaccording to implementations of this disclosure. In addition, thefollowing figures and descriptions serve as non-limiting examples of thevariety of operational assets that network edge devices can beconfigured to monitor and/or control according to implementations ofthis disclosure.

FIG. 12 depicts a diagram 1200 of an example wiring configuration forconnecting an operational asset using serial data interfaces of anetwork edge device. The diagram 1200 shows a wiring bay 1008 of anetwork edge device with serial data wiring connections from an RS485interface 1204 of an operational asset and an RS 232 interface 1206 ofan operational asset. The wiring bay 1008 includes several rows ofvarious different I/O interfaces 1202. The example I/O interfaces 1202include (from top left to bottom right) a power supply output (V+sen),analog current signal inputs (IL-1, IL-2, IL-3), another power supplyoutput (V+sen), positive and negative analog sensor differential voltageinputs (VP-3, VN-3), a ground or reference voltage connection (GND), anRS485 serial data interface (MB-A, MB-B, GND), an RS 232 serial datainterface (TX, RX), an 8V signaling output (V.+8V), a thermistor input(Temp), a pulse counter input (PLS-2), additional ground or referencevoltage connections (GND), another power supply output (V+sen), analogvoltage signal inputs (VP-1, VP-2), an additional ground or referencevoltage connection (GND), a digital signal input (D-IN), an analogcontrol signal interface (ILi, ILo), another pulse counter input(PLS-1), an additional ground or reference voltage connection (GND), andan external power supply connection (PWR+, GND).

In the example wiring configuration for the RS485 serial connection,terminal A of the RS485 interface 1204 is connected to the MB-A terminalof the wiring bay 1008 I/O interface 1202. Terminal B of the RS485interface 1204 is connected to the MB-B terminal of the wiring bay 1008I/O interface 1202. And, the ground terminal (GND) of the RS485interface 1204 is connected to a ground (GND) terminal of the wiring bay1008 I/O interface 1202.

In the example wiring configuration for the RS232 serial connection, thetransmitted data terminal (TX) of the RS232 interface 1204 is connectedto the received data terminal (RX) of the wiring bay 1008 I/O interface1202. The received data terminal (RX) of the RS232 interface 1204 isconnected to the transmitted data terminal (TX) of the wiring bay 1008I/O interface 1202. And, the ground terminal (GND) of the RS232interface 1204 is connected to a ground (GND) terminal of the wiring bay1008 I/O interface 1202.

FIG. 13 depicts a diagram 1300 of an example wiring configuration forconnecting an operational asset using analog data interfaces of anetwork edge device. The diagram 1300 illustrates several wiringconfigurations for connecting different sensors to the wiring bay 1008of a network edge device.

For example, two 2-wire sensors 1302 and 1304 (e.g., 2-wire pressuresensors) are shown as being connected to the analog current signalinputs (IL-1, IL-2) of the wiring bay 1008. The power supply terminals(Vin+) of both 2-wire sensors 1302, 1304 are connected to a power supplyoutput (V+sen) of the wiring bay 1008 to provide power to the sensors1302, 1304. The output terminal (Iout) of the first 2-wire sensor 1302is connected to the first analog current signal input (IL-1) of thewiring bay 1008. And, the output terminal (Iout) of the second 2-wiresensor 1304 is connected to the second analog current signal input(IL-2) of the wiring bay 1008. Although not shown, a third 2-wire sensormay be connected in a similar manner to the third analog current signalinput (IL-3).

In another example, a 4-wire sensor 1306 (e.g., a 4-wire pressuresensor) is shown as being connected to the differential voltage input(VP-3, VN-3) of the wiring bay 1008. The power supply terminal (VS+) ofthe 4-wire sensor 1306 is connected to a power supply output (V+sen) ofthe wiring bay 1008 to provide power to the sensor 1306. The referencevoltage terminal (0V) of the 4-wire sensor 1306 is connected to a groundterminal (GND) of the wiring bay 1008. And, the positive and negativedifferential voltage output terminals (Vout(+), Vout(−)) of the 4-wiresensor 1306 are connected to the positive and negative analog sensordifferential voltage inputs (VP-3, VN-3) of the wiring bay 1008.

In another example, a 3-wire sensor 1308 (e.g., a 3-wire pressuresensor) is shown as being connected to an analog voltage signal input(VP-1) of the wiring bay 1008. The power supply terminal (VS+) of the3-wire sensor 1308 is connected to a power supply output (V+sen) of thewiring bay 1008 to provide power to the sensor 1308. The referencevoltage terminal (0V) of the 3-wire sensor 1308 is connected to a groundterminal (GND) of the wiring bay 1008. And, the voltage output terminal(Vout) of the 3-wire sensor 1308 is connected to the analog voltagesignal input (VP-1) of the wiring bay 1008. Although not shown, a second3-wire sensor may be connected in a similar manner to the second analogvoltage signal input (VP-2).

In addition, an external power source 1310 (e.g., a battery) isconnected to the external power supply connection (PWR+, GND) of thewiring bay 1008 to provide power to the network edge device and thesensors.

FIG. 14 depicts a diagram 1400 of an example wiring configuration forconnecting an operational asset to control interfaces of a network edgedevice. The diagram 1400 illustrates a wiring configuration forconnecting a motor 1402 with a motor controller 1404 to the wiring bay1008 of a network edge device. For example, the motor 1402 can beconnected to the network edge device so that the network edge device cancontrol the operation of the motor 1402. For example, motor controller1404 is shown as being connected to the analog control signal interface(ILi, ILo) of the wiring bay 1008. The analog control signal interface(ILi, ILo) includes an analog loop control current input (ILi) and ananalog loop control current output (ILo). The loop control inputterminal (Iin) of the motor controller 1404 is connected to the analogloop control current input (ILi) of the analog control signal interface(ILi, ILo) on the wiring bay 1008. The power supply voltage terminal(+Vs) of the motor controller 1404 is connected to the analog loopcontrol current output (ILo) of the analog control signal interface(ILi, ILo) on the wiring bay 1008. In addition, an external power source1310 (e.g., a battery) can be connected to the external power supplyconnection (PWR+, GND) of the wiring bay 1008 and to the motorcontroller 1404 to provide power to the network edge device and themotor 1402.

FIG. 15 depicts a diagram 1500 of an example wiring configuration forconnecting an operational asset to an expansion module of a network edgedevice. The diagram 1500 shows a motor 1402 and associated sensors(2-wire pressure sensor 1501, flow meter 1504, and thermistor 1506)connected to an I/O expansion board 1010 of a network edge device. TheI/O expansion board 1010 includes a motor controller interface 1502 andseveral rows of various other I/O interfaces 1202. The example I/Ointerfaces 1202 of the I/O expansion board 1010 include (from top leftto bottom right) analog current signal inputs (IL-1, IL-2), a powersupply output (V+sen), an analog voltage signal input (VP-1), a groundor reference voltage connection (GND), an analog control signalinterface (ILi, ILo), another ground or reference voltage connection(GND), a motor controller interface 1502, another analog voltage signalinput (VP-2), another power supply output (V+sen), another ground orreference voltage connection (GND), a pulse counter input (PLS-1), athermistor input (Temp), an RS485 serial data interface (MB-A, MB-B),another pulse counter input (PLS-2), another ground or reference voltageconnection (GND), and a digital signal input (D-IN). The motorcontroller interface 1502 includes, but is not limited to including, aswitched motor power interface (Motor+, Motor−) and an external powersupply connection (PWR+, GND). In some examples, the switched motorpower interface (Motor+, Motor−) can include a solid state powerswitching relay.

In the example wiring configuration shown, the 2-wire pressure sensor1501 is connected to the first analog current signal input (IL-1) of theI/O expansion board 1010. The power supply terminal (Vin+) of the 2-wirepressure sensor 1501 is connected to one of the power supply outputs(V+sen) of the I/O expansion board 1010 to provide power to the sensor1501. The output terminal (Iout) of the 2-wire pressure sensor 1501 isconnected to the first analog current signal input (IL-1) of I/Oexpansion board 1010.

The motor 1402 and an external power source 1310 are connected to themotor controller interface 1502. The positive and negative powerterminals (+, −) of the motor 1402 are each, respectively, connected tothe positive and negative terminals of the switched motor powerinterface (Motor+, Motor−). The external power source 1310 is connectedto the external power supply connection (PWR+, GND) of the I/O expansionboard 1010.

The flow meter 1504 is connected to the first pulse counter input(PLS-1) of the I/O expansion board 1010. The power supply terminal(Vin+) the flow meter 1504 is connected to one of the power supplyoutputs (V+sen) of the I/O expansion board 1010 to provide power to theflow meter 1504. The pulse output terminal (P-out) of the flow meter1504 is connected to the first pulse counter input (PLS-1) of the I/Oexpansion board 1010. And, the ground terminal (GND) of the flow meter1504 is connected to one of the ground connections (GND) of the I/Oexpansion board 1010.

The terminals of the thermistor 1506 are each connected to a terminal ofthe thermistor input (Temp) of the I/O expansion board 1010.

FIG. 16 is a schematic illustration of example computer systems 1600that can be used to execute implementations of the present disclosure.The system 1600 can be used for the operations described in associationwith the implementations described herein. For example, the system 1600may be included in any or all of the computing components discussedherein to include network edge devices. The system 1600 includes aprocessor 1610, a memory 1620, a storage device 1630, and aninput/output device 1640. Each of the components 1610, 1620, 1630, 1640are interconnected using a system bus 1650. The processor 1610 iscapable of processing instructions for execution within the system 1600.In one implementation, the processor 1610 is a single-threadedprocessor. In another implementation, the processor 1610 is amulti-threaded processor. The processor 1610 is capable of processinginstructions stored in the memory 1620 or on the storage device 1630 todisplay graphical information for a user interface on the input/outputdevice 1640.

The memory 1620 stores information within the system 1600. In oneimplementation, the memory 1620 is a computer-readable medium. In oneimplementation, the memory 1620 is a volatile memory unit. In anotherimplementation, the memory 1620 is a non-volatile memory unit. Thestorage device 1630 is capable of providing mass storage for the system1600. In one implementation, the storage device 1630 is acomputer-readable medium. In various different implementations, thestorage device 1630 may be a floppy disk device, a hard disk device, anoptical disk device, or a tape device. The input/output device 1640provides input/output operations for the system 1600. In oneimplementation, the input/output device 1640 includes a keyboard and/orpointing device. In another implementation, the input/output device 1640includes a display unit for displaying graphical user interfaces.

Implementations of the subject matter and the operations described inthis specification can be realized in digital electronic circuitry, orin computer software, firmware, or hardware, including the structuresdisclosed in this specification and their structural equivalents, or inany appropriate combinations thereof. Implementations of the subjectmatter described in this specification can be realized using one or morecomputer programs, i.e., one or more modules of computer programinstructions, encoded on computer storage medium for execution by, or tocontrol the operation of, data processing apparatus, e.g., one or moreprocessors. In some examples, program instructions can be encoded on anartificially generated propagated signal, e.g., a machine-generatedelectrical, optical, or electromagnetic signal that is generated toencode information for transmission to suitable receiver apparatus forexecution by a data processing apparatus. A computer storage medium canbe, or be included in, a computer-readable storage device, acomputer-readable storage substrate, a random or serial access memoryarray or device, or a combination of one or more of them. Moreover,while a computer storage medium is not a propagated signal, a computerstorage medium can be a source or destination of computer programinstructions encoded in an artificially generated propagated signal. Thecomputer storage medium can also be, or be included in, one or moreseparate physical components or media (e.g., multiple CDs, disks, orother storage devices).

The operations described in this specification can be implemented asoperations performed by a data processing apparatus on data stored onone or more computer-readable storage devices or received from othersources.

The term “data processing apparatus” encompasses all kinds of apparatus,devices, and machines for processing data, including by way of example aprogrammable processor, a computer, a system on a chip, or multipleones, or combinations, of the foregoing. In some examples, the dataprocessing apparatus can include special purpose logic circuitry, e.g.,an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application specificintegrated circuit). In some examples, the data processing apparatus canalso include, in addition to hardware, code that creates an executionenvironment for the computer program in question, e.g., code thatconstitutes processor firmware, a protocol stack, a database managementsystem, an operating system, a cross-platform runtime environment, avirtual machine, or a combination of one or more of them. The apparatusand execution environment can realize various different computing modelinfrastructures, such as web services, distributed computing and gridcomputing infrastructures.

A computer program (also known as a program, software, softwareapplication, script, or code) can be written in any form of programminglanguage, including compiled or interpreted languages, declarative orprocedural languages, and it can be deployed in any form, including as astand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, object, orother unit suitable for use in a computing environment. A computerprogram may, but need not, correspond to a file in a file system. Aprogram can be stored in a portion of a file that holds other programsor data (e.g., one or more scripts stored in a markup languagedocument), in a single file dedicated to the program in question, or inmultiple coordinated files (e.g., files that store one or more modules,sub programs, or portions of code). A computer program can be deployedto be executed on one computer or on multiple computers that are locatedat one site or distributed across multiple sites and interconnected by acommunication network.

The processes and logic flows described in this specification can beperformed by one or more programmable processors executing one or morecomputer programs to perform actions by operating on input data andgenerating output. The processes and logic flows can also be performedby, and apparatus can also be implemented as, special purpose logiccircuitry, e.g., an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC(application specific integrated circuit).

Processors suitable for the execution of a computer program include, byway of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, andany one or more processors of any kind of digital computer. Generally, aprocessor will receive instructions and data from a read only memory ora random access memory or both. Elements of a computer can include aprocessor for performing actions in accordance with instructions and oneor more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Generally, acomputer will also include, or be operatively coupled to receive datafrom or transfer data to, or both, one or more mass storage devices forstoring data, e.g., magnetic, magneto optical disks, or optical disks.However, a computer need not have such devices. Moreover, a computer canbe embedded in another device, e.g., a mobile telephone, a personaldigital assistant (PDA), a mobile audio or video player, a game console,a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver, or a portable storage device(e.g., a universal serial bus (USB) flash drive), to name just a few.Devices suitable for storing computer program instructions and datainclude all forms of non-volatile memory, media and memory devices,including by way of example semiconductor memory devices, e.g., EPROM,EEPROM, and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, e.g., internal harddisks or removable disks; magneto optical disks; and CD ROM and DVD-ROMdisks. The processor and the memory can be supplemented by, orincorporated in, special purpose logic circuitry.

To provide for interaction with a user, implementations of the subjectmatter described in this specification can be implemented on a computerhaving a display device, e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquidcrystal display) monitor, for displaying information to the user and akeyboard and a pointing device, e.g., a mouse or a trackball, by whichthe user can provide input to the computer. Other kinds of devices canbe used to provide for interaction with a user as well; for example,feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback, e.g.,visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback; and input fromthe user can be received in any form, including acoustic, speech, ortactile input. In addition, a computer can interact with a user bysending documents to and receiving documents from a device that is usedby the user; for example, by sending web pages to a web browser on auser's client device in response to requests received from the webbrowser.

Implementations of the subject matter described in this specificationcan be implemented in a computing system that includes a back endcomponent, e.g., as a data server, or that includes a middlewarecomponent, e.g., an application server, or that includes a front endcomponent, e.g., a client computer having a graphical user interface ora Web browser through which a user can interact with an implementationof the subject matter described in this specification, or anycombination of one or more such back end, middleware, or front endcomponents. The components of the system can be interconnected by anyform or medium of digital data communication, e.g., a communicationnetwork. Examples of communication networks include a mesh network, alocal area network (“LAN”) and a wide area network (“WAN”), aninter-network (e.g., the Internet), and peer-to-peer networks (e.g., adhoc peer-to-peer networks).

While this specification contains many specific implementation details,these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of anyimplementation of the present disclosure or of what may be claimed, butrather as descriptions of features specific to example implementations.Certain features that are described in this specification in the contextof separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in asingle implementation. Conversely, various features that are describedin the context of a single implementation can also be implemented inmultiple implementations separately or in any suitable sub-combination.Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certaincombinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more featuresfrom a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from thecombination, and the claimed combination may be directed to asub-combination or variation of a sub-combination.

Similarly, while operations are depicted in the drawings in a particularorder, this should not be understood as requiring that such operationsbe performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, orthat all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirableresults. In certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processingmay be advantageous. Moreover, the separation of various systemcomponents in the implementations described above should not beunderstood as requiring such separation in all implementations, and itshould be understood that the described program components and systemscan generally be integrated together in a single software product orpackaged into multiple software products.

Thus, particular implementations of the subject matter have beendescribed. Other implementations are within the scope of the followingclaims. In some cases, the actions recited in the claims can beperformed in a different order and still achieve desirable results. Inaddition, the processes depicted in the accompanying figures do notnecessarily require the particular order shown, or sequential order, toachieve desirable results. In certain implementations, multitasking andparallel processing may be advantageous.

What is claimed is: 1.-20. (canceled)
 21. A network edge device forcommunicating between an operational asset and a backend network, thedevice comprising: a first communication interface configured tocommunicate with an operational asset; a second communication interfaceconfigured to communicate with a backend network; a controller coupledto the first communication interface and second communication interface;and a computer-readable storage device coupled to the controller andhaving instructions stored thereon which, when executed by thecontroller, cause the controller to perform operations to facilitatedata communications between the operational asset and the backendnetwork, the operations comprising: receiving, from the firstcommunication interface, first data from the operational asset, thefirst data formatted according to a first data format that is specificto the operational asset; processing the first data according to anasset template to generate second data, the second data including thefirst data and being formatted according to a second data format that isspecific to the backend network, wherein the asset template identifies:the first data format for data received from the operational asset, thesecond data format for data to be sent to the backend network, and acontrol signal format of control signals for controlling operatingparameters the operational asset; and causing the second data to betransmitted to the backend network by the second communicationinterface.
 22. The device of claim 21, wherein the operations comprise:receiving, from the second communication interface, instructions fromthe backend network to change an operating parameter of the operationalasset; generating, based on the asset template, a control signal tochange the operating parameter of the operational asset in accordancewith the instructions, the control signal being formatted according to acontrol format specific to the operational asset; and causing thecontrol signal to be transmitted to the operational asset by the firstcommunication interface.
 23. The device of claim 21, wherein receivingthe first data comprises receiving a portion of the first data at eachof a plurality of first time intervals, wherein the operations furthercomprise storing each portion of the first data, and wherein the seconddata is caused to be transmitted at an end of a second time interval,the second time interval being of a longer period of time than each ofthe first time intervals.
 24. The device of claim 21, wherein the firstdata format includes a digital data format specific to the operationalasset.
 25. The device of claim 23, wherein the operations furthercomprise causing the network edge device to enter a low power modebetween each of the first time intervals.
 26. The device of claim 21,wherein the operations comprise: determining, based on the first dataand the asset template, to change an operating parameter of theoperational asset; generating, in accordance with the asset template, acontrol signal to change the operating parameter of the operationalasset, the control signal being formatted according to a control formatspecific to the operational asset; and causing the control signal to betransmitted to the operational asset by the first communicationinterface.
 27. The device of claim 21, wherein the network edge deviceis operating in a first mode in which changes to operating parameters ofthe operational asset are controlled by instructions from the backendnetwork, wherein the operations comprise: determining thatcommunications with the backend network have been lost; and shifting thenetwork edge device to operate in a second mode in changes to operatingparameters of the operational asset are controlled by the network edgedevice in accordance with the asset template.
 28. The device of claim21, wherein the asset template further identifies criteria forcontrolling operating parameters of the operational asset, and alarmvalues associated with parameters of the operational asset.
 29. Thedevice of claim 21, wherein the operations comprise performing ananalysis on the first data to generate a result, and wherein the seconddata includes the result.
 30. The device of claim 21, wherein the seconddata includes an identifier for the operational asset.
 31. Acomputer-implemented method for communicating between an operationalasset and a backend network, the method being executed by one or moreprocessors and comprising: receiving, from a first communicationinterface at a network edge device, first data from the operationalasset, the first data formatted according to a first data format that isspecific to the operational asset, the first communication interfacebeing configured to communicate with an operational asset; processingthe first data according to an asset template to generate second data,the second data including the first data and being formatted accordingto a second data format that is specific to the backend network, whereinthe asset template identifies: the first data format for data receivedfrom the operational asset, the second data format for data to be sentto the backend network, and a control signal format of control signalsfor controlling operating parameters the operational asset; and causingthe second data to be transmitted to the backend network by a secondcommunication interface, the second communication interface beingconfigured to communicate with a backend network.
 32. The method ofclaim 31, further comprising: receiving, from the second communicationinterface, instructions from the backend network to change an operatingparameter of the operational asset; generating, based on the assettemplate, a control signal to change the operating parameter of theoperational asset in accordance with the instructions, the controlsignal being formatted according to a control format specific to theoperational asset; and causing the control signal to be transmitted tothe operational asset by the first communication interface.
 33. Themethod of claim 31, further comprising: determining, based on the firstdata and the asset template, to change an operating parameter of theoperational asset; generating, in accordance with the asset template, acontrol signal to change the operating parameter of the operationalasset, the control signal being formatted according to a control formatspecific to the operational asset; and causing the control signal to betransmitted to the operational asset by the first communicationinterface.
 34. The method of claim 31, wherein the network edge deviceis operating in a first mode in which changes to operating parameters ofthe operational asset are controlled by instructions from the backendnetwork, and wherein the method further comprises: determining thatcommunications with the backend network have been lost; and shifting thenetwork edge device to operate in a second mode in changes to operatingparameters of the operational asset are controlled by the network edgedevice in accordance with the asset template.
 35. The method of claim31, wherein the asset template further identifies criteria forcontrolling operating parameters of the operational asset, and alarmvalues associated with parameters of the operational asset.
 36. Anon-transitory computer readable storage device storing instructionsthat, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or moreprocessors to perform operations comprising: receiving, from a firstcommunication interface at a network edge device, first data from theoperational asset, the first data formatted according to a first dataformat that is specific to the operational asset, the firstcommunication interface being configured to communicate with anoperational asset; processing the first data according to an assettemplate to generate second data, the second data including the firstdata and being formatted according to a second data format that isspecific to the backend network, wherein the asset template identifies:the first data format for data received from the operational asset, thesecond data format for data to be sent to the backend network, and acontrol signal format of control signals for controlling operatingparameters the operational asset; and causing the second data to betransmitted to the backend network by a second communication interface,the second communication interface being configured to communicate witha backend network.
 37. The medium of claim 36, wherein the operationsfurther comprise: receiving, from the second communication interface,instructions from the backend network to change an operating parameterof the operational asset; generating, based on the asset template, acontrol signal to change the operating parameter of the operationalasset in accordance with the instructions, the control signal beingformatted according to a control format specific to the operationalasset; and causing the control signal to be transmitted to theoperational asset by the first communication interface.
 38. The mediumof claim 36, further comprising: determining, based on the first dataand the asset template, to change an operating parameter of theoperational asset; generating, in accordance with the asset template, acontrol signal to change the operating parameter of the operationalasset, the control signal being formatted according to a control formatspecific to the operational asset; and causing the control signal to betransmitted to the operational asset by the first communicationinterface.
 39. The medium of claim 36, wherein the network edge deviceis operating in a first mode in which changes to operating parameters ofthe operational asset are controlled by instructions from the backendnetwork, and wherein the operations further comprise: determining thatcommunications with the backend network have been lost; and shifting thenetwork edge device to operate in a second mode in changes to operatingparameters of the operational asset are controlled by the network edgedevice in accordance with the asset template.
 40. The medium of claim36, wherein the asset template further identifies criteria forcontrolling operating parameters of the operational asset, and alarmvalues associated with parameters of the operational asset.